Stinging insects are known for building nests and hives. Each species constructs a unique nest, and each has preferred nesting sites. While some stinging insects nest above ground, others like to build nests underground, making them more difficult to find. Knowing what to look for can help you locate and identify a nest. Check out which stinging insects prefer to nest underground.
Yellow Jackets
Yellow jacket nests are constructed from chewed wood fiber. These stinging insects build nests in the ground, typically near the base of trees. With a small hole serving as the entrance, their nests are hard to see. To identify a nest, you’ll want to look for yellow jackets hanging out in the same area or listen for a distinct buzzing sound. One nest can contain hundreds to thousands of yellow jackets. These stinging insects will place guards at the entrance to try to protect the nest. Vibrations or movements near the nest can disturb them.
Cicada Killers
Cicada killers are a type of wasp that are similar in appearance to yellow jackets. These stinging insects are solitary wasps, but they may nest near each other in separate burrows. Cicada killers build their nests underground in well-drained soil in sunny areas. They usually construct nests close to trees where cicadas can be found. The entrance hole connects to a tunnel that leads to different chambers where the eggs will be laid. Mounds of soil are often found near the nest’s entrance.
Bumblebees
Bumblebees prefer to nest underground or at ground level in grass or vegetation. If there is a pre-existing hole, they will opt to build their nest in it. They use plant material to help insulate the nest. Bumblebees choose to build nests in areas that are dry, well-sheltered, and shady. Their nests are comprised of wax cells, but they are disorganized in comparison to other bee species. Colonies are also smaller than other stinging insect colonies with a few dozen to a few hundred bees. These bees are often spotted coming and going from the nest.
Velvet Ants
Velvet ants are a species of wasps that resemble ants and have a fuzzy body. Female velvet ants don’t have wings. Instead of flying, they run quickly along the ground. Unlike other stinging insects on this list, velvet ants don’t build nests. Instead, they take over existing underground nests of wasps and bees. When velvet ants enter the nest, they lay eggs near the larvae. These wasps prefer nests that are created in areas with sandy soil and are often seen in fields. Velvet ants aren’t social insects and don’t live together in colonies.
Fire Ants
This species of ant is known for its red coloring and painful sting. Fire ants construct nests underground by tunneling in the soil. These tunnels extend outward from the nest. Their nests usually can be identified by a mound of soil, but this mound won’t have an entrance hole. Ants enter and leave the nest via the tunnels. Mounds are typically several inches high, but they can be larger depending on the size of the colony. These mounds help to regulate temperatures in the nest. Fire ants prefer to build their nests in open areas with plenty of sunshine.
When stinging insects nest underground, it can be difficult to spot them. Knowing what to look for will make it easier to identify a nesting spot and take steps to avoid a run-in with these bugs. If you’re dealing with a pest problem, we’re here to help! Check out our Maggie’s Farm Simply Effective™ Pest Control products for a more environmentally and family-friendly solution.