Remarkable Longivitey-Hornet Nest at UWGB

I recently noticed this bald-faced hornet (Dolichovespula maculata) nest hanging in a tree on campus. Judging from its size it was obviously built last summer and abandoned in the fall. What is unusual about this is that it is in only slightly worse condition than the ones I found in Stoughton in late December, despite being exposed to the elements for a much longer period of time. It is not as if we have had particularily benign winter weather here in Green Bay either, with numerous snow, rain and wind storms.

Notice the new leaves forming on the tree. It's only a matter of time before the nest is hidden from view-for the second time!