Jerry A. Payne, USDA Agricultural Research Service, Bugwood.org
Howard Ensign Evans, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org
Bald-faced Hornets & Aerial Yellowjackets
Dolichovespula maculata and Dolichovespula arenaria
Bald-faced hornets (Dolichovespula maculata) are related to yellowjackets. They have white and black coloring. They build paper nests above ground, often in trees (see photo above). They aggressively defend their nests. Aerial yellowjackets (Dolichovespula arenaria) build similar nests (photo bottom right) that they defend.
Stay away from wasp nests and tolerate them, if possible. They aren’t as annoying at picnics as other species. Solutions for yellowjackets will work for both species if you need to take action.