orange red wasps in lawn

I've been seeing these large orange red wasps flying out of my front yard and I think they're living in the ground. For the past few weeks I've seen them coming out of the grass in many different locations but I can't find any nests. I've heard about digger wasps but when I look, I don't see any holes or other locations where they could be nesting. I'm afraid my dog or kids might step on one and get stung. Is there anything I can do to keep them away?

Red, brown to orange wasps are more commonly known as paper wasps. This species likes to nest under house siding, behind window shutters, around door frames and other areas which are somewhat protected from direct sunlight and other elements. They over winter and emerge in early spring to build new nests. When nest building they will forage to many locations including lawns as they search for water and other raw materials. During dry spells they will be seen around bird feeders, pools and man made ponds as well as landscaping that is being watered.

If you see these wasps foraging into your grass or mulch, they're probably doing this in search of water or nest material. You could treat the landscaping with some of the Cypermethrin featured in our Wasp Control article. This will keep them away or kill them if they continue to land over treated surfaces. Alternatively you could do a thorough inspection of the house to make sure you don't have any nesting on your home. Drione Dust is ideally suited to treat siding and other cracks where they might be nesting and prime locations include facia boards, soffits and where rain gutters meet roofing.