The common yellowjackets that we see most often, almost always nest underground, sometimes in logs, sometimes in holes in concrete steps. But this species, typically makes a paper nest that is hung from a tree, sometimes underneath a deck or from a man-made structure. The nest is much smaller than that of the bald-faced hornet, our other common species that makes a big aerial paper nest. When they nest in small numbers as here, these wasps are not very aggressive. I was within about 10 feet taking photos; however, if I'd knocked the nest or disturbed it in some way, I'm sure they wouldn't have been happy and might have let me know!