If asked to imagine a bald-faced hornet, most people would probably think of its bold black-and-white markings and have feelings of unease and wariness. If you get near their nest and they feel threatened, they will fiercely protect their home by administering a painful sting that definitely leaves a mark on your memory.
On the flip side, there is more to a bald-faced hornet than its ferocity. They are masters at crafting beautiful, sturdy homes made out of paper. An up-close look at their pendant nests reveals magical striations of chewed wood fibers. It is amazing to see all of the strands pasted together to form a fibrous mat.
So next time you see a bald-faced hornet, may you have reverence for its skill in building a home and a healthy respect for its ability to protect it.
