If you start to see little round holes on wooden surfaces, decks, and furniture, you might be facing a destructive pest in the form of a carpenter bee infestation. They they are beneficial insects, just like honeybees or bumblebees. However, these wood-boring insects dig into wood to lay their eggs, often leaving unsightly holes and tunnels. If left unchecked, their work can cause a lot of damage over time, destroying window frames, fascia boards, or the underside of wood surfaces causing structural damage.
Do I have carpenter bees, or regular bees?
They look alike but are different in their behavior and appearance. Here's how you can tell:
- Carpenter bees have shiny, black, hairless abdomens, unlike bumblebees, which have fuzzy abdomens.
- Adult carpenter bees are solitary, and you’ll notice them flying alone near wooden structures.
- Bumblebees or honey bees generally nest in colonies and won’t damage wood.
- Carpenter bees leave a telltale sign in the form of small, circular openings into their nest tunnels with piles of wood shavings nearby.
How are wasps different than carpenter bees?
While wasps and bees may look similar at first glance, they differ in several key ways:
- Wasps have smooth, slender bodies with a distinct waist, while bees are more robust and fuzzy.
- Wasps tend to be more aggressive and can sting multiple times, while most bees sting only once.
- Nesting: Wasps build paper-like nests, often in trees, attics, or under eaves. Bees typically build wax-based hives.
- Behavior: Wasps are predatory, feeding on insects, while bees primarily feed on nectar and pollen (but all are attracted to pet food or sugary drinks).
How to Kill Carpenter Bees
You'll Need
- Protective clothing (gloves, long sleeves, etc.)
- Insecticide spray or carpenter bee dust
- Caulk or wood putty
- Drill with a small bit (optional)
- Bee traps (optional)
- Wood stain or paint
1. Locate Carpenter Bee Nests
- Inspect wooden structures (decks, fences, eaves). The first sign of trouble is usually small, round holes in wood, each around ½ inch in diameter.
- Look for sawdust or frass (insect waste) near these holes, which a sign of burrowing. This will help you determine if it's a new and active hole or old damage.
- Check during the day when bees are most active to spot.
2. Apply Insecticide or Dust
- Choose a carpenter bee insecticide spray or insecticide dust (boric acid works well).
- Wearing protective gear, spray or dust into the holes where bees are nesting.
- If using dust, a hand duster can help you reach deeper into the tunnels.
- Pro tip: Apply the treatment during the evening or early morning when bees are less active.
3. Seal the Holes With Wood Putty or Caulk
- Wait for about 24-48 hours after applying insecticide to ensure the bees have been exterminated.
- Once confirmed, seal the exterior openings using caulk or wood putty to prevent re-entry. A safe time to do this is in the late fall.
- For extra protection, plug the hole with a small wooden dowel rod before sealing.
4. Paint or Stain the Wood
- Did you know that carpenter bees are less likely to burrow into painted or stained wood? After sealing the holes, paint or stain the wood surface to discourage future infestations.
- If you need to replace damaged lumber, consider using treated wood, using hardwoods, or switch to synthetic materials (aluminum siding or vinyl siding), which the bees are less likely to attack.
5. Set Traps (Optional)
- Set up carpenter bee traps around your home to catch any remaining bees.
- These traps mimic the bees’ natural nesting preferences and lure them into a container where they become trapped.
FAQ
How can I prevent carpenter bees from returning?
A charming, low-key method to repel wood bees is to place wind chimes on your outdoor structures. This may reduce pest activity, especially for hard-to-reach areas. Apply a fresh coat of paint to seal old carpenter bee tunnels, especially on structures made of soft wood. Additionally, placing bee traps around wooden structures can help catch any early arrivals before the late spring nesting season.
Are carpenter bees dangerous to humans?
They are generally not aggressive and rarely sting unless provoked. Males may act like a threat to humans as they get territorial, but they don't actually have stingers. Female carpenter bees can sting you but only use them when threatened.
What’s the best time to apply insecticide?
It’s best to treat a wood-boring bee nests in the early morning or late evening when the bees are less active and inside their burrows. This increases the chances of eliminating the bees and reduces the risk of being stung.
