| DESCRIPTION |
 |
Baldfaced hornets are known also as "white-faced hornets." They are in the same genus as the yellowjacket wasps (Vepula). They are distinguished from the yellow jackets by being black and white. Bodies are very heavy, even for yellow jacket relatives. Body length is 16-20 mm. In California, the hornet is restricted to the northern half of the state. They build exposed paper nests in trees or shrubs. Occasionally, they may construct nests on or within building. The nests are constructed of a paper-like material formed from masticated wood, and may reach 2 feet in diameter.