Carpenter bees belong to the Xylocopa genus and are large, robust bees known for their wood-boring habits. They resemble bumblebees but have a distinct shiny black abdomen that lacks hair. Unlike bumblebees, which are social and live in colonies, carpenter bees are solitary insects.
Carpenter Bee Damage
Carpenter bees bore holes into wood to create nests. The female bees excavate tunnels in the wood where they lay eggs and raise their young. Over time, these tunnels can weaken the structural integrity of wooden beams, eaves, fences, and other wooden structures.
Signs of carpenter bee activity include:
- Perfectly Round Holes: The bees create circular entry holes, typically around 1/2 inch in diameter, on the surface of wood.
- Sawdust: The bees leave piles of sawdust near the entry holes as they bore tunnels.
- Buzzing Sound: Males can be territorial and may hover around the entry holes, creating a loud buzzing noise.
How to Control Carpenter Bees
While carpenter bees are essential pollinators, their wood-boring behavior can lead to costly damage. Here are some methods for controlling carpenter bees:
1. Preventative Measures:
- Paint or Stain Wood: Carpenter bees prefer bare wood, so painting or staining wooden surfaces can deter them from nesting.
- Seal Cracks and Holes: Inspect wooden structures regularly and seal any cracks or holes that may serve as entry points for bees.
- Use Bee Repellents: Certain natural oils like citrus, tea tree, or eucalyptus can act as deterrents.
2. Physical Barriers:
- Screening: Use fine mesh screens to cover vents, windows, and other openings to keep bees out.
- Wood Protectants: Apply wood protectants such as polyurethane or lacquer to create a barrier on the wood.
3. Professional Treatments:
- Insecticidal Dust: BengalPro Exterminators and other pest control professionals can apply insecticidal dust into bee tunnels to eliminate the bees and prevent further damage.
- Exclusion Techniques: Experts in carpenter bee removal can employ exclusion techniques to prevent bees from entering and nesting in wooden structures.