[AT] OT-Ground bees

[STEVE ALLEN]

Funnily enough, I got nailed today myself.  I was using a push mower to rim around the base of some trees, and apparently hit a nest.  The first sting got my attention, but I thought is was a wasp.  Numbers 2 and 3 made me look to see the nice yellow jackets surrounding my legs at the level of the top of my socks.  It took me until Number 5 to let go of the lawn mower, and Number 6 got me in the other leg as I moved off.  I got to my lawn chair several yards away before Number 7 hit.

After a few moments' recovery, I realized I hadn't brought the mower with me.  I looked to see it swarmed with bees and decided that neglect was a good thing.  After a little while, the swarm thinned out, and I took a 12' jumper cable, and used the clamp handles like hocks, tossing them over the more handle and dragging the machine away from the nest.  Only 2 or 3 came away with it, but they soon got bored and left.  Thus I was able to continue mowing, but my leg sure hurts.   

Now begins the eradication campaign.  I usually don't go after these critters unless they are both aggressive and in the way.  This group qualifies.  Since they are not near any buildings or machinery, the limits are few.  I am considering everything from the soap trick through gasoline to atomic fission.  

The "original" (and limping) Steve Allen
Glad it was a push mower and not a JD that I disturbed them with.