Bald-faced hornets, known for their distinctive black and white coloring and aggressive behavior, typically establish nests high in trees or shrubs. When it comes to foraging for food, these hornets generally travel within a range of about one-third of a mile, or approximately 500 to 800 meters, from their nest.
During the warmer months, bald-faced hornets are actively foraging for food sources such as insects, nectar, and sugary substances. Their foraging radius can vary based on food availability, the density of their population, and environmental factors. In areas where food is abundant, they may not need to travel far, while in leaner circumstances, they might venture further afield.
It's also worth noting that while they typically keep their foraging activities relatively close to home, bald-faced hornets can exceed their normal range if necessary. For instance, when creating nests in suburban or urban areas, they may frequent human environments where food sources are plentiful, such as outdoor dining areas or garbage cans, prompting them to explore farther distances.
Understanding their foraging habits is important, especially if you're looking to manage their presence around your home. It can help inform strategies to deter them from building nests too close to human activity, which might otherwise lead to increased interactions and potential stings.
In summary, while bald-faced hornets usually stay within a distance of about one-third of a mile from their nests, their foraging behavior can adapt based on environmental conditions and food availability.