Vespula maculata is the scientific name for a bald-faced hornet. It looks very much like a wasp or bee if you were to just see it outside. They are not commonly found around homes, they preferr to build their nests in forests. It is a common myth that hive wasps won't sting during the night. This is not true. Hive wasps are less active during the night, but if they feel that their hive is being threatened they will take action and sting.