If you’ve ever stumbled upon a wasp nest in the ground, you know how dangerous and frightening it can be compared to one hanging in a tree. Ground wasps are a type of wasp that nests in the soil and can be found in various locations, including lawns, gardens, and wooded areas.
Unlike their aerial counterparts, ground wasps are more aggressive and can sting multiple times, seriously threatening humans and pets. You can spot them with their two pairs of wings. Ground wasp nests can be challenging to spot, as they are often hidden in the ground and can be camouflaged by grass or other vegetation.
If you have made ground wasp nest identification on your property, it’s essential to take action immediately to prevent potential harm. But how do you safely eliminate a ground wasp nest without putting yourself or others in danger?
In our guide, you can learn more about what does a ground wasp nest look like. By the end, you’ll be armed with several options to deal with an underground wasp nest around your house. (Learn How Long Do Wasps Live)
How Do They Appear on Your Property?
Ground wasp nests are a common problem for homeowners, especially during late spring and summer. They can be found in loose garden soil, burrows, or wall voids and are often difficult to spot until it’s too late. These nests are usually home to many species of wasps, including yellow jackets and hornets, and can contain huge colonies of stinging insects.
If you’re unsure what a ground wasp nest looks like, watch for a small, conical pile of dirt with a large hole in the center. This is the nest opening, where the wasps enter and exit. Ground wasps are “gregarious” nesters, meaning they nest individually but next to each other. It’s not uncommon to find many similar-looking dirt piles in a small area.
Ground wasps are hazardous and can attack if they feel threatened. If you notice wasp activity on your property, acting is essential to get rid of the nest. You can try using insecticide or insect-killing dust to control the colony, but it’s essential to wear protective clothes and have an escape route in case of an attack. You can also try digging up the nest and removing it, but this can be risky and should only be attempted by a professional.
If you or someone in your family is allergic to wasp stings, a ground wasp nest can be precarious and may require immediate attention.
Are Ground Wasps Dangerous?
Ground wasps can be harmful if their nest is disturbed or threatened. They are known to become feisty and sting humans or pets to protect their nest and young. Yellow jackets are common ground wasps that are particularly aggressive and can sting multiple times.
Ground wasp nests are usually hidden and can be accidentally stumbled upon while walking or doing yard work. It is essential to be aware of wasp activity in your yard, especially during late summer when ground nests are at their largest.
It is important to note that not all ground wasps are dangerous. Some species, such as solitary digger wasps, benefit your garden as they prey on pest insects and do not form large colonies. (Learn How To Get Rid Of Carpenter Bees With Vinegar)
What Kind of Wasps Live in the Ground?
Ground wasps are a common type of wasp that build their nests in the soil. Many species of wasps nest underground and can be found in various habitats, including gardens, yards, and fields. Here are some common species of ground wasps:
- Yellow jackets: Yellow jackets are ground wasp that builds their nests in loose soil. They can sting numerous times and are notorious for their aggressive behavior.
- Digger wasps: Digger wasps are solitary wasps that burrow into the ground to create their nests. They are not aggressive and rarely sting unless provoked.
- Hornets: Hornets are a type of wasp that build large colonies in trees and bushes. However, some species of hornets, such as the baldfaced hornet, will make their nests in the ground.
It is important to note that ground wasps can be dangerous, especially if you are allergic to their stings. If you experience an allergic reaction to a wasp sting, seek medical attention immediately.
What Does a Ground Wasps Nests Look Like?
Ground wasp nests are typically found in loose soil and can be identified by a small opening where the wasps enter and exit. The nest is usually a small, conical pile of dirt with a hole in the center. This opening can be as small as a quarter or as large as a half-dollar.
Ground wasps build their nests in various locations, including gardens, yards, and even under trees. While ground wasps are not typically aggressive, they can become dangerous if their nest is disturbed. Unlike a bee, which live in colonies, ground wasps are solitary insects that burrow into the ground to build and house their nests. The queen wasp will lay her eggs in the burrow, and the larvae will feed on prey brought back by the adult wasps.
Where Ground Wasps Like to Hide
Ground wasps are among the most common species of stinging insects in gardens and yards. Ground wasps are solitary insects, but they may build their nests close to each other, forming large colonies. The nests are usually small and solitary, with only a few wasps living in them. However, some nests can grow quite large, with several hundred wasps.
Solitary ground wasps prefer to build their nests in areas with an easy escape route, such as near bushes, trees, or underground burrows. They also like to build their nests in wall voids, attics, and other protected areas where they can be safe from predators.
How Do I Get Rid of Ground Bees and Wasps?
These stinging insects can be dangerous, and their nests can be difficult to locate and get rid of. Here are some tips for safely eliminating ground wasp nests:
Identify the Nest
Before attempting to eliminate a ground wasp nest, it’s important to identify its location. Look for a small opening in the ground surrounded by loose soil, which is the entrance to the nest. Ground wasp nests can also be found under bushes, trees, and other plants.
Protective Clothes
When dealing with ground wasps, it’s essential to wear protective clothing to avoid getting stung. Cover your skin with long sleeves, pants, and gloves. Wear a hat and a face mask to protect your head and face.
Eliminate the Nest
There are several ways to eliminate a ground wasp nest. One effective method is to use an insecticide spray or dust. Apply the insecticide directly into the nest underground early morning or late at night when the wasps and bees are less active.
Another method is to pour boiling water into the nest opening. This will kill the wasps and destroy the nest. You can also use a trap to lure the wasps away from the nest. Hang the trap in a tree near the nest and wait for the pests to enter. Once they are trapped, dispose of the trap and the wasps. (Read Does Moth Balls Keep Roaches Away)
Prevent Future Nests
To prevent future ground wasp nests, keep your yard clean and free of debris. Trim bushes and trees regularly, and remove old nests from previous years. Seal any openings in your home’s walls and roof to prevent wasps from building nests in wall voids and attics. If you have pets, keep them away from areas where ground wasps are active. Wasps may see pets as prey and attack them.
For more information on how to get rid of ground wasps, check out online resources or contact a wasp and bee control professional. One thing to note, these wasps won’t survive the winter. Cold weather can be a great way to control these pests, yet you may face too much risk of stings to wait.
How Do I Get Rid of Ground Wasps?
Removing yellow jacket ground nests
Yellow jackets are common ground wasps that can be aggressive and dangerous, especially if their nest is disturbed. To remove a yellow jacket ground nest, it’s best to do it at night when all the workers are inside the nest.
Wear protective clothes and approach the nest slowly and quietly. Use a spray designed for yellow jackets and fire directly into the nest opening.
Removing nests inside structures
If you have a ground wasp nest inside a structure, such as in a wall
void or attic, it’s best to call a professional exterminator. They have the equipment and experience to safely remove the nest without causing damage to your property or risking numerous stings.
However, to remove the nest, use a cloud of insecticidal dust designed for wasps and inject it directly into the nest opening. Wait a few days for the dust to take effect, then remove the nest.
When removing pest insects from a ground wasp nest, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Always wear gloves, long sleeves, and pants.
- Approach the nest slowly and quietly to avoid agitating the wasps.
- Have an escape planned in case the wasps become aggressive.
- Eliminate the entire colony, including the queen, to prevent the wasps from returning.
- Dispose of the nest carefully to avoid attracting other pests or insects.
How Do I Get Rid of Ground Wasps Naturally?
Ground wasps can be a nuisance, especially if you have pets or children who like to play in your yard. While there are many ways to get rid of ground wasps, some people prefer to use natural methods instead of harsh chemicals. Here are some ways to get rid of ground wasps naturally:
How Does Vinegar Get Rid of Wasps?
One way to get rid of ground wasps naturally is to use white vinegar. Spraying white vinegar around wasp and bee nests works well to get rid of them because they don’t like strong odors. However, be careful since this is only a temporary solution.
You must reapply the vinegar every few days to keep the wasps away. Another natural way to get rid of ground wasps is to use a mixture of dish soap and water. Combine a quarter cup of dish soap with one gallon of water. Pour the mixture down the hole in the fabric, then quickly evacuate the area. The soap will suffocate the wasps and kill them. (Read Killing Fire Ants With Dawn Dish Soap)
If you want to keep the wasps away from your yard, you could try getting the ground wet and keeping it that way. Lightly spray the area with water and continue for a couple of days. Moist soil might persuade them that your garden is not welcoming anymore, and they will move away.
Another natural way to get rid of ground wasps is to use a trap. You can make a trap by filling a jar with sugar water and placing it near the nest. The wasps will be attracted to the sugar water and drown in the pot. Make sure to place the jar far away from your property and any areas where people or pets might be.
Remember always to wear protective clothes when dealing with ground wasps. If you’re allergic to their stings, it’s best to call a professional to remove the nest.
