It builds its nests under mailboxes, under decks, patios, eaves and porches, on playground equipment, fire towers and in plants. The nests are attached at an angle to objects. The wasps are very protective of the nest and will sting at the slightest provocation. This wasp is aggressive towards humans but not nearly as much as the guinea wasp. Yellowjackets are the most feared wasps among foresters.
Most nests are below ground around rotten stumps or on the sides of terraces, gullies and ditches.
Yellowjacket colonies may contain hundreds to thousands of individuals. They will sting repeatedly and any avid woodsman will soon retreat after stumbling onto a nest. Both species are attracted to sweet foods and liquids, ripened fruit and perfumes. Yellowjackets nesting in hay. Yellowjackets nesting in wall.