Bald Faced Hornet In Colorado: All You Need To Know

Bald Faced Hornet In Colorado: All You Need To Know
and Wasp Control Creature Control of Colorado from www.creaturecontrolcolorado.com

Introduction

Colorado is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including insects. One of the most interesting and unique insects in Colorado is the Bald Faced Hornet. Known for their striking appearance, these hornets are often feared for their aggression and painful stings. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about Bald Faced Hornets in Colorado.

Appearance

Bald Faced Hornets are easily recognizable due to their black and white coloration. They are larger than most wasps, with an average length of ¾ inch to 1 inch. These hornets have a black body with white markings on their face and abdomen. They also have long wings and a stinger at the end of their abdomen.

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Habitat

Bald Faced Hornets can be found in a variety of habitats in Colorado, including forests, meadows, and urban areas. They typically build their nests in trees, bushes, and on the sides of buildings. Their nests are made of paper-like material, which is created by chewing wood fibers and mixing them with saliva.

Behavior

Bald Faced Hornets are known for their aggressive behavior, especially when their nest is disturbed. They will defend their nest vigorously and can sting multiple times. Their stings can be very painful and can cause an allergic reaction in some people. It is best to avoid disturbing their nests and to seek professional help if you need to remove a nest.

Food

Bald Faced Hornets are predators and feed on a variety of insects, including flies, caterpillars, and spiders. They also feed on nectar and other sugary substances. They are beneficial to the ecosystem as they help to control the population of other insects.

Life Cycle

Bald Faced Hornets have a unique life cycle. The queen will emerge from hibernation in the spring and will start to build a nest. She will lay eggs, and the workers will emerge to help with nest-building and foraging. The colony will continue to grow throughout the summer, and new queens and males will be produced in the fall. The males will mate with the new queens, and the old colony will die off in the winter.

Prevention and Control

The best way to prevent Bald Faced Hornets from building a nest in your yard is to remove potential nesting sites. This includes removing tree branches and shrubs that are close to your home. If you do find a nest on your property, it is best to seek professional help for removal. Attempting to remove a nest on your own can be dangerous and can result in multiple stings.

Bald Faced Hornets and the Environment

Despite their aggressive behavior, Bald Faced Hornets play an important role in the ecosystem. They help to control the population of other insects, which can be harmful to plants and other animals. They also serve as a food source for birds and other predators.

Conclusion

Bald Faced Hornets are fascinating insects that are found throughout Colorado. While they may be feared for their aggression and painful stings, they play an important role in the ecosystem. It is important to be aware of their behavior and to take precautions to prevent them from building nests on your property. If you do find a nest, seek professional help for removal.

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