May I have some yellowjacket help, please?

There is a nest of yellowjackets underground in my yard. Normally I live and let live, but this is very near the house, and the critters seem to be looking at my dogs with too much interest.

I got a big can of wasp/hornet/yellowjacket spray killer and a couple of traps. I figured that I would put the traps out first, thereby reducing the population somewhat, then spray into the nest to get the rest. But they show no interest in the traps. I baited them as the instructions said, with some stinky liquid on cotton balls, hung them up, but since yesterday mid-afternoon they have caught only one sorry-looking yellowjacket. The instructions say to hang the traps at least 20 feet from the nearest nest; why is that?

I also thought of waiting until night when they're all asleep, then pouring a bottle of cheap dishwashing soap down the burrow; I know this kills bugs faster than spray poison does. Would this be ... unwise?

tamcor22007-08-13T06:08:33Z

Favorite Answer

yellow jackets are easy wait til night time and have to cans of spray and start spraing in the hole dont stop until both cans are empty and the bees will be gone

Andrew T2007-08-16T06:12:09Z

Direct experience with the can spray option: It had no effect on wasps even after emptying two cans. The water will work well if the area is suitable, else call in a professional.

PS Thanks for the help on my VISA application earlier; I have now got my VISA in hand, have paid all the fees applicable, and the embassy apologised for their errors in communication.

Anonymous2007-08-13T06:09:53Z

We had this too a couple of years ago. Flood the area with water, keep it as wet as possible. They will soon move out.

moanalisa2007-08-13T06:14:49Z

call in a professional.your dog will thank you.and it;s the safest way to get rid of them.