Carpenter Bees
Carpenter bees (Xylocopa sp.) are large robust bees, resembling bumble bees (eastern species, pictured) while a west coast carpenter bee is very distinctive (males being all black and females being yellow-amber color). In the areas east of the Mississippi, they are mostly black. Males of this species can be identified by the whitish mark on their head. They’re generally a solitary nester (compared to bumble-bees, which nest in small colonies), and they make a nearly perfect round hole in wood, including the siding and soffits of structures.
Carpenter Bee Habits
The females bore into wood, making a 1⁄2 inch round hole. Individual chambers within the nest are first provisioned with a pollen ball, then an egg is laid and the chamber is closed off. This is done six to eight times, one nest per female - and one time nesting in the spring. Males are active first, emerging from hibernation in early spring, depending on the weather. Males are aggressive in defending territories, but do not sting. After mating and nesting are completed, larvae develop and emerge, and will be active all summer on flowers and other nectar sources. In the fall, they can return to nests and hibernate until the following spring.
Questions To Ask About Carpenter Bees
- When did you first see them?
- Have they been active before in previous years?
- Have you had treatments before?
- Where do you see them?
Carpenter Bee Inspection Tips
These bees can make nests that are easily visible, but may often make their nests in hidden areas protected from the weather (i.e. behind fascia boards, under decks and porches, etc.). Look for a 1⁄2 inch round hole, saw dust and stains (mixture of excrement and saliva) in areas where nests are being constructed.
