The baldfaced hornet is actually a yellowjacket. It receives its common name of baldfaced from its largely black color but mostly white face, and that of hornet because of its large size and aerial nest.
All species are social, living in colonies of hundreds to thousands of individuals.
These wasps are adept at stinging and are especially aroused if danger threatens the nest. Unlike the honeybee, which dies upon inflicting a single sting, vespine wasps may sting as often as they find a target. The three species of Florida yellowjackets are readily separated by differences in body color and pattern. Identification is possible without hand lens or microscope, and, for this reason, a simple pictorial key is all that is necessary. Color patterns of Florida yellowjackets.