Hornets are common stinging insects, and their nests can be a concern. Many wonder if these insects build homes underground. Understanding their nesting habits is important for avoiding disturbances and ensuring safety.
Identifying Hornets and Their Nesting Habits
True hornets, like the European hornet, typically build nests in cavities such as hollow trees or wall voids. Bald-faced hornets create aerial nests. However, many people refer to yellowjackets as “ground hornets.” Yellowjackets are social wasps that frequently build their nests underground, often utilizing abandoned rodent burrows, tree stumps, or other existing soil cavities.
Yellowjackets, identifiable by their black and yellow striped bodies, are smaller and more slender than true hornets. Their preference for subterranean locations offers advantages like protection from predators and stable temperature regulation. These hidden nests also allow the colony to grow undetected.
Anatomy of an Underground Hornet Nest
An underground yellowjacket nest is largely concealed, with only a small, inconspicuous hole visible at the surface. This entrance, often camouflaged by debris, can be difficult to spot until activity increases. The nest structure beneath the ground is a complex, paper-like creation, built from chewed wood fibers mixed with saliva.
Within the underground cavity, the nest consists of multiple horizontal tiers of hexagonal cells where larvae develop. The entire structure is enclosed by a papery envelope, which can grow quite large, sometimes reaching the size of a basketball by season’s end. Most nests are less than a foot deep, though some can extend almost 2 feet, especially in abandoned burrows.
Encountering an Underground Nest
Accidentally disturbing an underground yellowjacket nest can be dangerous. These insects are highly aggressive when their colony is threatened. Vibrations from footsteps, lawn mowing, or gardening can provoke a swarm, leading to multiple painful stings. Unlike bees, yellowjackets can sting repeatedly.
If you accidentally disturb a nest, slowly and calmly walk away without swatting at the insects. Rapid movements can agitate them and trigger a more aggressive response. To prevent encounters, regularly inspect your yard for small holes or increased insect activity, especially in loose or sandy soil. Maintaining a moist lawn can also deter ground-nesting wasps, as they prefer dry soil.
Professional removal is often recommended for underground nests due to the risks of DIY attempts. Experts have the equipment and experience to safely manage and eliminate these hidden colonies. Attempting to remove a nest yourself, especially if you are allergic to stings, can result in serious health consequences.