Yellow Jackets

Identifying Yellow Jackets

Yellow jackets are easily recognizable by their distinctive black and yellow coloring and range in size from 3/8 to 3/4 inch. These wasps are often mistaken for bees due to their similar appearance but are far more aggressive and capable of stinging multiple times.

Common Nesting Habits

Yellow jackets are most commonly found nesting underground, which is why they’re often referred to as "ground bees." However, they can also establish nests in more hidden areas such as the voids within a home’s walls, under decks, and in shrubs or trees. When nesting above ground, their nests are gray, semi-round, and shaped like an upside-down teardrop with a single entrance.

Behavior and Aggressiveness

Known for their highly aggressive nature, yellow jackets will not hesitate to defend their nests. Unlike bees, they are capable of stinging repeatedly, making them a serious threat if their nest is disturbed. There are several species of yellow jackets, with the two most common being:

• Aerial Yellow Jackets: These wasps typically build nests above ground in trees or structures.
• German Yellow Jackets: A species known to often nest in enclosed spaces such as wall voids or attics, making them a frequent invader of homes.

Understanding their nesting habits and aggressive behavior is key to identifying and managing a yellow jacket infestation. Contact Midwest Bee Removal today for further questions.