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Carpenter bees look like typical bumblebees but often lack yellow stripes. They are solitary bees.
Size | Color | Legs | Shape | Antenanae |
1″ | Dark Blue, Green or Purple on Abdomen | 6 | Oval | True |
Habitat
Carpenter bees bore through soft woods to lay eggs and protect their larvae as they develop.
Habits:
Unlike bumble bees, carpenter bees are solitary insects. 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.
Control / 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.
Threats:
Carpenter bees do not pose a public health threat, but they can damage wood through their nest building.