Bald-faced hornets (Dolichovespula maculate)
are mostly black with white patterns on the face,
first antennal segment, and posterior tip. They
build large nests covered with a thin papery
envelope that is easily torn to release many
angry wasps ready to defend their home. Nests
are found in trees, lower shrubs, or attached to
buildings and are about the size of a basketball
by the end of the summer.