Which Wasps Nest in the Ground?
WouterTrying to figure out which wasps nest in the ground can be a frustrating task. These little insects can be aggressive and sometimes will attack people. You can also get stung, which can cause pain and swelling.
Before you start removing nests yourself, it’s a good idea to determine whether your wasp problem is just a few wasps or a larger colony. If you find a large colony, you should consider hiring a professional pest control service to take care of the problem.
One type of wasp that can be a nuisance is the ground digger wasp. These little creatures build their nests in the ground, usually near patios and flagstones. They are attracted to flowers and nectar. They dig a tunnel that is up to a quarter of an inch deep. There are several types of ground digger wasps, including social ground wasps. Social ground wasps live in large colonies led by a queen. These wasps tend to build their nests in sunny locations.
The eastern yellow jacket is another species of ground wasp that is aggressive and will protect their colony. They are more likely to sting you than other wasps. You should mark the entrances to any nests you find in your yard. This will let you know when they are active.
In general, most wasps don’t sting, unless they are threatened. If you are allergic to stings, you should not attempt to remove nests yourself. If you do, you can get a sting on the face or arm, which can cause a serious allergic reaction.
