Pest ID Learn about the pests that impact homes and businesses across Central Massachusetts.

Worcester Pest Identification: Bald-Faced Hornets

Effective Bald-Faced Hornet Identification & Treatment Serving Central Massachusetts

Bald-faced hornets, recognized by their black bodies and white-patterned faces, build enclosed paper nests, often suspended above the ground. Queen hornets are larger, and their nests can be as large as 14 inches in diameter. Infestations are identified by the presence of nests and worker hornets flying around them.

Bald-faced hornets build nests three or more feet off the ground, typically in trees, shrubs, overhangs, or structures. The nests are aggressive, and bald-faced hornets attack intruders. Treatment is recommended due to their smooth stingers that allow repeated stinging. Colonies may contain 100 to 400 members, most active during the day.

Appearances peak in late summer, and the inseminated females overwinter, while others die off. Unlike other stinging insects, bald-faced hornets do not reuse nests. Stings can cause pain, itching, and swelling, with a similar risk of allergic reactions as other insect stings. They feed on soft-bodied insects, nectar, and pollen, and are attracted to meat.

Key Facts:

Bald-faced hornets build large, ball-shaped paper nests.
The nests are constructed annually, and abandoned nests are often destroyed by birds.
Queens survive winter, start nests in spring, and produce sterile daughters.
Mature colonies consist of a queen, 200 to 400 infertile female workers, brood, and, in late summer, males and reproductive females.
Nests are built every year, and drones come from unfertilized eggs, lacking stingers.

Central Mass Trusts Us. See Why.

K
The communication has been exceptional!
"Thank you so much for all your services! The communication offered from Ford's really has been exceptional! From inquiring about different services to scheduling, to conversations with the technicians regarding how the property looked and offering opinions about additional services. I can't forget the full support with the IPM program as well!! Thank you for instilling professionalism throughout the entire company — it's noticeable and very much appreciated!!”"

Kerri C.
6/23/26
C
Fantastic Pest Control Technician
"Super professional and very thorough."

Central Mass Orthodontics
6/22/26
C
Fantastic Pest Control Technician
"Super professional and very thorough."

Central Mass Orthodontics
6/22/26
V
Very Friendly and Professional
"The technician was very friendly, professional, and helpful."

Victor H Calderon
6/17/26
K
Robert was very, very good
"You are very lucky to have an employee that is so dedicated."

Kevin Daley
6/17/26
K
Very detailed and dedicated employee
"You are very lucky to have an employee that is so dedicated."

Kevin Daley
6/17/26
M
He Did a Great Job
"He did a great job and was very thorough."

Morty
6/10/26
M
He Did a Great Job
"He did a great job and was very thorough."

Morty
6/10/26
j
Very Efficient
"Very nice young man. Great personality."

june nuzzolilo
6/01/26

View All Reviews

Talk with Ford's Hometown Services Today

Call (774) 418-4908 or send the form and we will help you sort out pests, wildlife, or lawn concerns with a plan that fits your property. At Ford's Hometown Services, we treat your home or business with the care we use for our own.

First Name
Last Name
Phone
Email
Address
Are you a new customer?
How can we help you?
By submitting, you agree to be contacted about your request & other information using automated technology. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text STOP to cancel. Acceptable Use Policy

Local Care Backed by 85+ Years of Doing the Right Thing

Voted the Area's Top Choice for Pest Control

We were voted the #1 pest control company in Central Massachusetts in 2024, something we achieved by putting people first and providing lasting results.
85+ Years Of Know-How

With us, you get practical, tailor-made solutions that are backed by over eight decades of industry experience.
Cleaner Visits, Every Time

We follow a four-step cleanliness process to keep homes and businesses neat and tidy, all while delivering effective pest control and lawn care.
Comprehensive Care, One Team

We're your one-stop shop for complete pest and wildlife control and lawn care, all under one roof.

Stay Ahead of Pests

Explore tips, local advice, and real answers from our Worcester team to help you protect your home, family, and property all year long.

Visit Our Blog