Nests are large, paper like, pendulous structures suspended from tree branches. Bald faced hornets will sting repeatedly if their nest is disturbed. Adults drink nectar and the larva feed on camel crickets and long horned grasshoppers. Preferred habitat is fields and woods. The female excavates a short burrow in the earth and places an anesthetized victim in the burrow with a single egg, and then seals the entrance.
Adults drink nectar and larva feed on cicadas.
Preferred habitat is forest edges and city parks. Burrows are dug in the soil to house two to three egg cells. Cicadas are placed in each cell to feed the larva. Adults drink nectar and larva feed on nectar and pollen. Preferred habitat is meadows and gardens with sandy soil.