Carpenter Bees
habits
- Unlike bumblebees, carpenter bees are solitary insects. Carpenter bees do not feed on wood at any time during their life cycle. Female carpenter bees will chew a tunnel into a piece of wood to build a nest gallery. The bits of wood she chews and deposits outside the nest are called frass. The male carpenter bee guards the outside of the nest. He does not have a stinger, but his constant buzzing causes concern for some.
threats
- Carpenter bees do not pose a public health threat, but they can damage wood through their nest building.
prevention
- Carpenter bees prefer bare wood, so painting and staining wood can sometimes deter them. However, they will sometimes attack stained or painted wood, so contact a pest control professional for assistance.
additional info
Colors
- Blue-black, green or purple metallic sheen on abdomen
Legs
- 6
Size
- 1"
Shape
- Oval: Bee Shape
Antennae
- yes
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