[pondgardener]

Craig,

I had an encounter with ground wasps once when I was out golfing with friends. I had just finished hitting the ball when I felt a sharp sting. I swatted the insect and that was when all hell broke loose. Apparently they can release an alarm pheromone in their venom sacs and signal the rest of the nest to attack. I was stung numerous times on the arms and legs as I attempted to get away from them. My golf partners were amused at my wild, flailing gestures to rid myself of the attackers. Fortunately, I was not allergic to the venom but the anti-histamine and topical lotions helped with the stings. And I was more observant in the future about where I stood or walked when I was out on the course.

George