What Kind Of Pest Infestation Is This? - Ask Extension
Hello! Thank you in advance for your help. We want to confirm what type of insect/critter would form the hundreds of mounds in our backyard that seemi...
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What Kind Of Pest Infestation Is This? #926809
Asked March 26, 2026, 11:56 AM EDT
Hello! Thank you in advance for your help. We want to confirm what type of insect/critter would form the hundreds of mounds in our backyard that seemingly appeared overnight this Spring. We are new renters (moved in Sept.) and I recall noticing them last summer as well. The landlord informed us today that last summer, an exterminator got rid of a bee’s nest for the property. It was underground. So our assumption is that these are ground bees nests. Unfortunately, they are all over the whole backyard, not just to the side, so it's disruptive and invasive for our usage of the yard. Can you confirm and recommend steps to get rid of them?
Anne Arundel County Maryland
Expert Response
Hi,
These look like solitary ground-nesting bees that are emerging from overwintering. They can sound alarming, but are harmless and very unlikely to sting. They will only be flying around for about 2-4 weeks. They are important native pollinators, though, and should be protected.
To discourage them from nesting, you will want to improve your lawn or use a ground cover if the growing conditions are not suitable for turf grass growth. The link provided will give you more guidance on management and discouraging new nesting sites.
Let us know if you have further questions.
Emily
