Dolichovespula maculata, commonly known as the bald-faced hornet, is a species of eusocial wasp found in North America. Despite its name, it is not a true hornet, but rather a member of the yellowjacket family.

Bald-faced hornets are commonly seen in late summer and fall, building their papery, gray nests in trees or on the sides of buildings. Their nests can reach up to three feet in height and may contain several hundred to thousands of individuals.

These wasps are known for their aggressive behavior when their nests are threatened. They will defend their homes with repeated stings, which can be painful and even dangerous to those who are allergic.

However, bald-faced hornets are also important pollinators and contribute to the ecosystem by preying on other insects, such as caterpillars and flies. They are also fascinating creatures to observe and can provide insight into the workings of eusocial insect societies.

One interesting aspect of bald-faced hornet behavior is their social organization. Like other eusocial insects, they are organized into a hierarchy based on caste. The queen lays all the eggs and is the largest and most important member of the colony. She is followed by female workers, who are responsible for foraging and caring for the young. Lastly, male drones are present solely for the purpose of mating with the queen.

Bald-faced hornets also have the ability to create a new queen and start a new colony. This occurs when the old queen dies or the current nest becomes too crowded. The workers then select an egg or young larva to raise into a new queen to start a fresh colony.

In terms of appearance, bald-faced hornets have distinctive black and white markings on their bodies. They are slightly larger than yellowjackets and have longer legs. Bald-faced hornets also have smooth stingers, which allows them to sting repeatedly without injuring themselves. This makes them particularly dangerous to humans and other animals when they feel threatened.

To avoid getting stung by bald-faced hornets, it is important to remain calm and avoid disturbing their nests. If a nest must be removed, it is best to do so at night when the wasps are less active. It is also recommended to wear protective clothing and use a flashlight to avoid accidentally disturbing the nest.

Overall, Dolichovespula maculata, the bald-faced hornet, is an important member of the North American ecosystem. While they can be dangerous, they also play a valuable role in controlling other insect populations and contributing to the pollination of plants. By learning more about these fascinating creatures, we can better appreciate their place in the world around us.

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