They can, but it’s not very common. If you were stung repeatedly after stepping near a hole in the lawn, you are most likely dealing with yellowjackets, which are a type of wasp.
It’s possible for ground-nesting bees to sting if you step on their nest, but it’s rare. This matters because if something like this happens to you, you’re likely dealing with yellowjackets, which are a type of wasp. And that changes what you need to do about the problem.
Early spring often brings harmless, solitary ground-nesting bees that dig dozens of small holes across bare or thin patches of sunlit soil. Each hole belongs to one female raising her own young. There is no shared nest or huge worker force. They’re mostly docile and even good pollinators, so it’s best to leave them alone.
Yellowjackets are a much bigger problem. They take over abandoned rodent burrows and soil cavities and build colonies that can become huge by August, with thousands of wasps inside. They’re aggressive about defending the colony. If you step on one or mow over the nest, they can sting repeatedly and in huge numbers.
In summary, if you think you have bees, the best thing you can do is to improve turf density and water the area so they nest somewhere else next year. If it’s yellowjackets, make note of the spot and stay away. Then call a professional. Don’t pour anything down the hole, as that can provoke a dangerous response.
If you have found a ground nest on your property, Mosquito Squad of Northwest Indiana can help. Mosquito Squad identifies what you have, treats the nests that need treating, and leaves the pollinators alone. This can help you to better protect your family and your yard.
