Yellowjackets are the aggressive ground- and void-nesting wasps that peak in late summer across the CSRA and sting repeatedly when a nest is disturbed.

How to identify the Yellowjacket

Black and bright yellow, about half an inch, with a smooth, hairless body and a fast, darting flight. They are often mistaken for bees but lack the fuzz.

Behavior & biology

Colonies nest in ground holes, wall voids, and undisturbed cavities, growing to thousands by late summer and foraging aggressively around food and trash.

Why Yellowjackets are a problem

They sting repeatedly, defend nests aggressively, and pose a serious risk to anyone allergic — a real hazard near patios, playgrounds, and dumpsters.

Signs of an infestation

Heavy wasp traffic to a single ground hole or wall gap, aggressive activity around outdoor food and trash, and rising numbers into late summer.

How we handle Yellowjackets in the CSRA

Nests should be treated professionally, not swatted or poured into. Our pest control program locates and treats the nest safely. Call 803-226-3155 to schedule. Browse the full pest library.