How Big Does a Yellow Jacket Nest Get?
A typical yellow jacket nest is anywhere between 500 to 15,000 cells and contains several thousand insects. In the southern parts of the United States, mild winters followed by early springs play a hand in the unchecked growth of certain colonies. These colonies do not die off in the winter as most do and can reach staggering sizes of 1 million cells with over 100,000 workers.
In extreme cases, yellow jacket nests may expand to fill much larger spaces, such as the back seat of an abandoned car. They can occupy abandoned barns or houses, as well. Giant yellow jacket nests have been documented in Florida, Georgia, Alabama and other warm locations.
If you encounter a yellow jacket nest, contact a local pest control expert immediately. Do not attempt to touch or exterminate such a nest on your own.