Pest Guide : What are Carpenter Bees?

What You Need to Know About Carpenter Bees

Carpenter bees are a common type of bee that can be found in various parts of the world. While they are important pollinators, they can also be a nuisance and cause damage to wooden structures. In this pest guide, we will discuss what carpenter bees are, how to identify them, why they might be present, whether they are dangerous, and how to control and prevent infestations.

Carpenter bees, scientifically known as Xylocopa, are large solitary bees that resemble bumblebees. They are named "carpenter bees" because of their nesting habits. Unlike honeybees, carpenter bees do not live in colonies. Instead, female carpenter bees excavate tunnels in wood to create nests for their young.

Schedule A Treatment Service

How to Identify Carpenter beeInfestation

Carpenter bees are a common wood destroying insect

A carpenter bee busy pollinating.

Carpenter bees are typically about 1 to 1.5 inches in length, with a robust and shiny black or dark brown body. They often have yellow or white markings on their heads and abdomens. Male carpenter bees are more aggressive and may exhibit territorial behavior, although they do not possess stingers. Females have stingers but are not generally aggressive unless directly threatened.

SCHEDULE AN INSPECTION

Common Questions About Carpenter Bees

Carpenter bees are attracted to untreated or unpainted wood. They prefer softwoods such as cedar, redwood, and cypress. If you have wooden structures, such as decks, eaves, or fences, that have not been adequately sealed or painted, they may become attractive nesting sites for carpenter bees.

Carpenter bees are generally considered nuisance pests rather than dangerous insects. While the males may exhibit aggressive behavior, they do not have stingers and are incapable of causing harm. Female carpenter bees have stingers, but they are unlikely to sting unless they feel threatened or provoked. However, if stung, the resulting pain and swelling are typically mild. Left untreated, carpenter bees can cause extensive damage to wood and can make it structural unsafe.

While there are DIY methods available, some can be less effective or even harmful. Avoid the following treatments:

  • Swatting or spraying with water: These methods can aggravate the bees and increase the chances of being stung.
  • Burning nests: This method can be dangerous and is not recommended due to the potential fire hazard.
  • Using non-targeted insecticides: General insecticides may harm beneficial insects and pollinators. It's best to use targeted products specifically designed for carpenter bee control.

If you have a carpenter bee infestation, there are several methods you can use to control their population:

  • Dust insecticides: Apply an insecticidal dust directly into the nest openings. This will kill the bees within the tunnels.
  • Foam insecticides: Foam sprays can be injected into the carpenter bee tunnels, reaching the hidden galleries and effectively eliminating the bees.
  • Sealing openings: After treating the nest, seal the openings with wood putty or caulking to prevent re-infestation.
  • Trapping: Set up carpenter bee traps near the infested areas. These traps attract and capture the bees, reducing their numbers over time.

Tips for Preventing Carpenter Bees

  • Paint or seal wood: Apply a coat of paint, stain, or sealant to all exposed wooden surfaces to make them less attractive to carpenter bees.
  • Fill or plug holes: Fill existing carpenter bee holes with wood putty or caulk to discourage re-nesting.
  • Replace damaged wood: If the wood is severely damaged, consider replacing it with treated or naturally resistant wood.
  • Hang or install deterrents: Hang shiny objects or wind chimes near vulnerable wooden areas to deter carpenter bees from nesting.

How My Pest Pros Helps Eliminate Carpenter Bees

If you're uncertain about dealing with a carpenter bee infestation or if the problem persists, it's advisable to seek assistance from a professional pest control service to ensure effective and safe removal.

My Pest Pros technicians are trained to identify and treat to eliminate the threat from carpenter bees. We use EPA-approved products and equipment to quickly stop carpenter bees from damaging your home.

Our team of trained pest experts will create an effective treatment plan to not only eradicates current problems but also provides preventative care. Our protection plans include coverage to prevent and eliminate carpenter bees and stinging pests.

For ultimate protection, our professionals will work with you to find a customized solution for your carpenter bees and stinging pest problems, today and tomorrow.

Contact Us Today

What Our Customers are Saying

SEE MORE REVIEWS

Dedicated to our Customers

If you have a pest-control question, we answer and respond around the clock. We don’t rush treatments; we get them right! We treat our customers like family; because to us, you are. So whenever you have a pest problem, you can rely on the team at My Pest Pros to take care of it.

Contact Us

For all of your pest control needs, My Pest Pros is there. Be sure to give us a call today for a free quote!

866-415-7577







    * This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

    Our Satisfaction Guarantee

    Our promise to you is simple: You will be 100% satisfied with our pest control programs. Guaranteed.*

    866-415-7577

    *With Our Unlimited Plans.