Pest Guide : What are 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.