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Carpenter Bee Removal & Control

Every critter has their own story.

The secret of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), a proven, cost-effective strategy to combat pest problems without unnecessary pesticide use, is to understand the life-cycle of the pest that is pestering.

Carpenter bee on a wooden surface.
What do carpenter bees look like and why are they concerning?

Carpenter bees get their name from their nesting behavior; nearly all species burrow into hard plant material such as dead wood, or even bamboo. Carpenter bees are black and yellow, and they are about 1 inch long.

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They resemble bumble bees, but their abdomen is black and shiny and they do not have the long yellow hairs found on bumblebees. Female carpenter bees have black faces and males have yellow faces. Carpenter bees tend to create their nesting galleries inside of wood around homes and businesses. They usually revisit the same galleries each year, and build new ones into the same sections of wood, which can cause structural damage. Further damage can come from hungry woodpeckers attacking carpenter bee nests to get to their larvae. Female carpenter bees, although usually not aggressive, can sting if they are threatened, and the venom from the sting has the potential to cause an allergic reaction in some people.

Carpenter bee on a flower.
Where do carpenter bees live?

Carpenter Bees prefer aged and unfinished wood. They generally start by tunneling under decks that don’t have a varnish or paint finish.

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It is also common for carpenter bees to build their nests in places like eaves, rafters, siding, and outdoor furniture. Carpenter bees are solitary do not live in colonies like most other types of bees. Instead, they construct a series of connected tunnels for themselves, their mate, and their eggs.

Carpenter bee on a rock.
Why do I have a carpenter bee problem?

Carpenter bees are attracted to untreated wood, especially when it is weathered or cracked. They prefer softer woods, like cedar, cypress, pine, and redwood.

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Pressure- treated wood and wood with paint or varnish are much less likely to be attacked by carpenter bees. Plant nectar is a source of food for carpenter bees, so properties with large amounts of flowers tend to draw them in. If the flowers are close enough to a wooden structure, the carpenter bees will subsequently find the wood and may infest it.

Carpenter bee on a person's hand.
When are carpenter bees active?

Carpenter bees begin activity near the end of winter, when the weather starts warming up. Those that survived the winter begin mating in April and May, which is when they are most commonly encountered.

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In the later part of spring into summer, carpenter bees nest and a new generation is born, making spring an ideal time for preventive measures. The newly born carpenter bees emerge in August and September to feed and pollinate flowers, before returning to their nests again for the winter.

Carpenter bee on a twig.
What’s the best way to prevent a carpenter bee infestation?

In order to avoid attracting carpenter bees, the amount of flowers and plants in the area immediately surrounding buildings should be limited.

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One of the best ways to deter carpenter bees from nesting in your home or business is by painting or varnishing any unfinished wood. When building any new structures, such as decks or sheds, use hardwood rather than softwood. Additionally, any exterior cracks and openings should be sealed. If a hole has remained from a previous season, a Carpenter Bee will reuse it. Have EXCEL get your extermination done before nesting begins, and talk about a recurring maintenance plan with your EXCEL Pest Control expert.

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Carpenter Bees FAQs

What are the signs of a carpenter bee infestation?

Some signs include; 1. Round holes in wood: these are usually entry points for carpenter bees to create their nests. 2. Sawdust: sawdust and wood shavings from their drilling holes can cause piles of debris below the holes. 3. Presence: seeing large, dark coloured bees, especially during spring and summer can be a sign of a infestation.

What are the signs of a carpenter bee infestation?

One of the most common signs of a carpenter bee infestation are round, perfectly drilled holes, approximately 1/2 inch in diameter, in your wooden structures such as decks, or siding. These holes are often found in areas that are exposed to sunlight and warmth. Another sign to look out for is the accumulation of yellowish sawdust-like material, often referred to as frass, below these holes. If you suspect a carpenter bee infestation, it is advisable to seek professional assistance. At Twin Boro, we conduct thorough inspections to confirm infestations and provide effective treatment solutions to protect your property.

How can I differentiate carpenter bees from other bee species?

Distinguishing carpenter bees from other bee species involves observing their size, appearance, and behavior. Carpenter bees are typically larger and less hairy than bumblebees. They have a shiny, black abdomen, which sets them apart. Carpenter bees are also solitary insects known for their habit of drilling into wood to create nests, which is another key identifying feature. If you are uncertain about bee species on your property, Twin Boro's experts can provide accurate identification and tailored solutions.

Are carpenter bees dangerous to humans?

In generalized terms, carpenter bees are not considered dangerous to humans. Males can be territorial and may hover around people but they do lack stingers. Females do possess stingers but rarely use them unless they feel provoked or threatened. However, carpenter bee nests and within wooden structures can lead to structural damage over time, making professional intervention by Twin Boro advisable to protect your property.

What kind of damage do carpenter bees cause to wooden structures?

Carpenter bees can cause structural damage by creating what are known as “galleries” or tunnels within wooden structures. While they do not consume wood like termites, their nesting activity weakens the wood over time, potentially requiring costly repairs. To prevent further damage, Twin Boro offers effective carpenter bee treatments to eliminate infestations and safeguard your property.

How do you treat carpenter bee nests or galleries?

At Twin Boro, we make use of safe and effective methods to treat carpenter bee nests and galleries. Our approach is meticulous, ensuring that the treatment removes the infestation while also safeguarding the structural integrity of your wooden surfaces.

Can I prevent carpenter bees from drilling into wood on my own?

Preventing carpenter bees from drilling into wood often involves sealing or painting wood surfaces to deter these insects. While some DIY methods may offer temporary relief, professional assistance from Twin Boro is recommended for comprehensive and long-lasting prevention. Our experts can assess your property, identify vulnerable areas, and provide effective preventive measures tailored to your specific needs.

Are your carpenter bee control methods safe for wooden furniture?

Absolutely, Twin Boro's carpenter bee control methods prioritize safety for both wooden structures and furniture. We carefully select products and techniques that are effective in eliminating carpenter bees while ensuring they do not harm wood surfaces. You can trust us to safeguard your wooden possessions while addressing carpenter bee infestations.

Do you offer preventive carpenter bee treatments?

Yes, we offer preventive carpenter bee treatments designed to protect your property from future infestations. These measures may include treating vulnerable wood surfaces to deter carpenter bees from nesting. Additionally, regular inspections and maintenance can help ensure long-term protection against the recurrence of carpenter bee infestations.

What attracts carpenter bees to certain areas?

Carpenter bees are typically drawn to unpainted, unfinished, or weathered wood surfaces. They have a preference for softwoods like cedar, redwood, and pine. These bees are also attracted to areas that receive abundant sunlight and warmth, making eaves, decks, and siding common nesting sites. Identifying and addressing these attractive features is key to carpenter bee prevention.

Can carpenter bees return to the same nesting site after treatment?

Carpenter bees can potentially return to the same nesting site if it is not properly treated. However, Twin Boro's professional treatments are designed not only to remove existing infestations but also to discourage bees from revisiting the same location. Our experts employ effective methods to safeguard your property against reinfestation, providing peace of mind and long-term protection for your home.

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