maybe a velvet ant?

http://www.whatsthatbug.com/velvet_ants.html

I've got those weird mounds next to the foundation of my house and wondered what made them. They just suddenly appeared this week. Didn't see any insects. I've never had those before. I hope someone knows what they are.

Deanna

Steve,

What you might have is a cicada killer wasp,which will not harm you. Take a look at this website.

Deanna

Here is a link that might be useful: Cicada Killer

Deanna is correct. Those are Cicada Killers. They tend to burrow into areas of turf that are sparse. The best combat for them is a dense, vigorous turf. They are however, harmless.