Carpenter bees dig tunnels in softwoods to lay their eggs and hide during the winter months. Although they don’t eat wood like termites, the burrowing can cause damage to your home’s exterior. A pest control specialist will help you eliminate an infestation to minimize damage. Here’s more information about this species to help you determine whether this is the bee you’re dealing with.

How to Identify Carpenter Bees & Their Nests

They look similar to honey and bumblebees, and may be difficult to spot. They are ¼ inch to an inch in length and can have the same black and gold markings as their cousins. Some are green or purplish in color. Unlike other bee species, their body parts are more pronounced, and the rear section is hairless.

To make their nests, carpenter bees bore into softwood for about an inch, then follow the grain for another six to eight inches. They leave food, often composed of nectar and pollen, lay eggs, then seal the chambers. During the boring process, they grind the wood and push it out of the tunnel, leaving particles you’ll see in piles on the flooring or stuck to the side of your walls. Common areas to look are near eaves, doorways, windows, decks, and other areas composed of softwoods like cedar and redwood.

How a Professional Will Get Rid of Them

Pest control specialists will first verify the problem isn’t honey bees. These may nest in old carpenter bee nests for a period of time. Since this species is helpful for the environment, they’ll safely remove them from the area.

A pest control expert may use products to ward off carpenter bees. Since some of them can sting, they will don protective clothing and apply insecticide dust into the bored holes. It is recommended to dust the holes three times; in the spring, mid-summer, and early fall. The insecticide sticks to the wings of the bees, spreading it throughout the nest. Once the bees are removed, you can fill their holes with putty before painting over the section to prevent future infestations in the same nest.

If you think carpenter bees have nested in your property, contact Acme Pest Control for assistance. Located in Concord and Mooresville, NC, these pest control experts have been in business for over 70 years. They provide bedbug, rodent, termite, and other pest removal services. They also offer inspections to help you identify infestations before they result in property damage. Learn more about bee removal on their website or call (704) 786-4166 to schedule an appointment.