Ground-Nesting Bees & Wasps

What it looks like

You'll notice small holes or burrow entrances in bare or thinning turf, often with bees or wasps flying in and out. Solitary ground bees (like cicada killers) are large but generally calm and not looking for a fight. Yellowjackets, on the other hand, are aggressive and will defend their nest if disturbed.

Often mistaken for: Cicada killers vs. yellowjackets—one's calm, one's not

When it shows up in the Triangle

Active from spring through fall as they build nests and forage. Yellowjacket nests get biggest—and most defensive—in late summer and fall.

Where you’ll see it

Shows up in home lawns and commercial turf, especially in bare or thin areas of soil.

What you can do

• Thicken up your lawn—thick turf leaves fewer bare spots for nesting.
• Overseed and address thin areas so soil isn't exposed.
• Watch nest activity before doing anything—many ground bees are harmless pollinators.
• Keep kids and pets away from active nests until you know what you're dealing with.
• Only consider removal if there's a real safety concern, like a nest near a doorway or play area.