Stinging insects Some stinging insects, such as yellow jackets, burrow into the ground. Wasps may nest under the house, on fences, or around boat docks.
Hornets construct a gray or brown paper nest five to ten feet above the ground.
What attracts them Dark colors and floral prints are attractive to stinging insects. White is the least insect-attracting color. Scented preparations such as perfumes, hair sprays, aftershave lotions, and bath sprays attract stinging insects. Yellow jackets and wasps feed in garbage cans, picnic grounds, or other sources where food is present. Always wear shoes when outside.