Friday, July 29, 2011

"Bunker Bees"

From The USGA:
Cicada Killer
Here is what the USGA has seen that has prompted some discussion in our area:

Issue:  "Bees" infesting golf course bunkers and frightening golfers who are afraid they will be stung.

Solution:
Educate golfers that the wasps that inhabit bunkers are actually Eastern Cicada Killer wasps.  Although their large size and swarming can be intimidating, they are non-aggressive.  Unless these insects are directly handled, they try to avoid contact and will not sting people.  Control of these wasps is very difficult and really unnecessary unless they are burrowing in areas such as putting greens or fairways where they can cause damage.