Carpenter Bees
Identifying Carpenter Bee Problems
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. Carpenter bees are generally solitary nesters (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
Female carpenter bees damage wood, making a 1⁄2 inch round hole when burrowing. 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. Male carpenter bee problems are active first, emerging from hibernation in early spring, depending on the weather. Male carpenter bee infestations 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 Bee Problems
- When did you first see them?
- Have they been active before in previous years?
- Have you had treatments before?
- Where do you see them?
Locating Carpenter Bee Infestations
Carpenter bee infestations 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.
How to Get Rid of Carpenter Bees
Getting rid of carpenter bees can be tricky since they tend to build their nests in unique places. Our green carpenter bee control experts will assess the carpenter bee problem and any carpenter bee damage prior to using environmentally friendly pest control methods. They will then work with you to establish an effective and long-lasting carpenter bee control plan, providing you with peace of mind when it comes to these potential unwelcome carpenter bee infestations. And because Eco-Wise™ Pest Control’s methods for carpenter bee control are environmentally friendly and organic, there is no concern for your family and pets.
Eco-Wise™ has the knowledge, equipment, and skills to take care of all your carpenter bee problems and will show you how to get rid of carpenter bees for good! Call today: 1-877-ECO-WISE
