Where are yellow jacket nests most commonly located?

Yellow jacket nests are most commonly located underground. This preference is due to their natural behavior and nesting habits, as yellow jackets often seek out pre-existing cavities or burrows in the soil, which provide protection from the elements and predators. These nests can also be found in other locations that offer some shelter, but underground sites are prevalent because they can easily access food sources in the environment while maintaining security for their colony.

Nesting in trees, while possible, is less common for yellow jackets compared to other species like hornets. Additionally, yellow jackets do not nest underwater, as their biology requires access to both air and food sources above ground. Attics can be suitable for nests, especially for other types of wasps and bees, but yellow jackets primarily prefer the underground habitats which contribute to their survival and profile as effective scavengers.