What kind of insect nest is this? - Ask Extension
Hi,
We have this nest on our house. From research, I'm guessing it's a yellowjacket or bald-faced hornet.
Can you provide better identification...
Knowledgebase
What kind of insect nest is this? #879759
Asked August 01, 2024, 2:21 PM EDT
Hi,
We have this nest on our house. From research, I'm guessing it's a yellowjacket or bald-faced hornet.
Can you provide better identification for us?
This photo was taken July 9, the nest is much larger now, extending further onto the white fascia above the window, and larger in diameter.
I tried to view the color of the insects using the nest, but I did not want to get close enough to know for sure.
Thanks for your help!
Oakland County Michigan
Expert Response
I can't identify it based on just the nest, but either way, these nests are not perennial. If they aren't bothering you (e.g. above your door), it should die off once it freezes.
Thanks for your reply.
I would like to leave the nest as you suggest.
It's not over my door, but it is 40 inches from the sidewalk and about 8 foot from the ground. Is that far enough away so that we don't 'invade their space', do you suppose? I think with further observation that they are bald faced hornets.
Thanks for helping me think this through.
Sharon
Without seeing it and seeing interactions, it is hard to know if they are or will be a problem. However, if people get harrassed or stung before the colony dies out for the season, you can always contact pest control.
