As an expert in the field of entomology, I have a deep understanding of the behavior and habitats of various insects, including yellow jacket bees. Yellow jacket bees, scientifically known as *Vespula* and *Dolichovespula*, are a group of wasps that are commonly found in many parts of the world. They are known for their distinctive yellow and black markings and their painful stings.

When it comes to their nesting habits, yellow jacket bees indeed have the propensity to live in the ground. They often choose pre-existing cavities such as rodent burrows or abandoned animal nests to establish their colonies. These underground nests provide them with a stable environment that is protected from weather elements and potential predators.

The statement that "Yellow jackets often nest underground in rodent burrows" is accurate. These wasps are adept at taking over and expanding the burrows, creating a complex network of tunnels and chambers that serve as their home. The nests are well-organized, with distinct areas for larvae, pupae, and adult wasps. The queen, who is the only reproductive female, lays eggs in these chambers, and the worker wasps take care of the developing larvae.

By late summer, a yellow jacket colony can indeed grow to a considerable size, sometimes housing thousands of individuals. This is a period when the colony is at its peak, with a large number of workers and a well-established social structure. The workers are responsible for foraging, caring for the young, and defending the nest. They are known for their aggressive behavior when their nest is threatened, and they will not hesitate to attack intruders to protect their home.

It is important to note that while yellow jackets can be a nuisance due to their stinging behavior, they also play a crucial role in the ecosystem. They are predators of many pests, helping to control populations of insects that can be harmful to crops and gardens.

In conclusion, yellow jacket bees do live in the ground, often in rodent burrows, and their colonies can be quite large and aggressive in their defense. Understanding their behavior and respecting their habitat can help in avoiding unwanted encounters and stings.

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Yellow jackets often nest underground in rodent burrows, so if you see lots of flying insects emerging from a hole in the ground, they're probably yellow jackets. By late summer, a colony may contain thousands of individuals that will aggressively defend their nests from intruders.read more >>