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Digger Wasps
Argofor
Posts: 1
For the second year running we are inundated with what we believe are digger wasps in our flower beds and lawn. They are small but literally probably thousands buzzing around. As last year, they now start to burrow in the lawn and create a hole surrounded by a mount of earth like a volcano. I assume that this year we have the off springs from last year and it will just go on and get worse. From what I can see, none of my neighbours lawns or flower beds are affected.
Has anyone else experienced this and what, if anything can be done to get rid of them, and if so, what time of year should this be done.
0
Posts
These are almost certainly mining bees, great pollinators and, as such, invaluable to gardeners. A friendly way to discourage them is to flood the areas they prefer as they need well-drained soil. However, they are harmless to us and, as I said, valuable in the garden.
H-C
Probably mining bees indeed or solitaries making their nests to lay their eggs for next spring. They are harmless and to be encouraged for pollination/crop. Try to avoid pesticides in your garden.
Look them up, find out how fascinating they are. Regard them as something of interest, not a problem. I love to see those little volcanos appearing
In the sticks near Peterborough
These could well be Ivy Bees (Colletes hederae). A fairly new arrival in Britain. See this FAQ page - there's a link at the bottom to a very good factshet with photos and more information: http://www.bwars.com/content/colletes-hederae-faqs