A large Bald-faced Hornet nest in a tree.

 Bald-faced Hornet - Nest

 

 

Common Name:  Bald-faced Hornet

Latin Name:  Dolichovespula maculata

Length:  13 mm

Range:  Throughout Alberta

Habitat:  Various

Time of year seen:  Spring to Fall (Additional Sightings)

Diet: Insects,  nectar and rotting fruit

Other:  A widespread species ranging through much of Canada.  Nests are typically found above ground and contain 200 to 300 workers with one queen.  Bald-faced Hornets are beneficial insects in that they kill significant numbers of flies and occasionally Yellow Jackets.

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Location: Highriver, AB
Date: Aug., 2007

                            
Photos:
Photo 5
Photo courtesy B. Airhart ©2007.