Dill talks with AP about yellow jackets

James Dill, a University of Maine Cooperative Extension pest management specialist, was a source for The Associated Press article “Benevolent or fearsome? Yellow jackets can be both.” Yellow jackets, which have a supportive role in gardening, can be dangerous for families and pets, according to the article. “Their nests are usually small and placed under protective overhangs on houses and garages,” says Dill. “Where you run into a problem is when you’re mowing the lawn and come across a ground nest. You don’t usually see those until it’s too late. Disturb those nests and they react terribly.” The Washington Post and The Columbian carried the AP report.