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Carpenter Bees

Carpenter bees, sometimes known as borer bees, are members of the Apidae family, and there are hundreds of species in numerous subgenera found all over the world. They dig through deadwood to create tunnels in which to lay their eggs. Carpenter bees don’t consume wood; instead, they bore into it to make nesting “galleries” where they deposit eggs in the spring and seek refuge in the winter. The galleries created by carpenter bees may appear little on the surface, but they are considerably larger and more harmful than they appear. The length of these bees varies between 12 and 25 mm. Bumblebees are similar in size and appearance. They come in a variety of colors, including black, greenish-black, metallic blue, and purplish-blue.

Habits

A carpenter bee nest opens a tunnel that travels in a straight line for a few inches before abruptly turning 90 degrees and leading to their chambers. Females prefer to return to already created tunnels every year and widen them as needed because tunnel construction takes so long. This accelerates the deterioration of the wood.

Habitat

The strong, black and yellow carpenter bee is attracted to unfinished or aged wood. The bugs do not consume wood, but they do dig tunnels to utilize as nests. These are commonly seen in the eaves of houses, as well as decks, siding, fascia boards, and porches. Carpenter bee adults spend the winter in their nests and emerge in the spring. If the pests are left alone, they may continue to use and enlarge the same tunnels, as well as create new ones.

Threats

Males are naturally gentle and lack stingers, however, they will hover close to animals and people approaching nest locations. Females only sting when provoked or handled violently. Carpenter bees may totally undermine all of the wood in the region they have colonized if left unchecked. Furthermore, the presence of carpenter bees attracts woodpeckers, who tunnel deeper into the wood in search of larval stage bees to feed.

Prevention

Because the galleries will most likely be vacant in the early fall, the optimum time to take preventative steps is when the young adult bees have hatched and moved on, and the older bees have not yet settled down for the winter. Carpenter bee openings should be sealed. After the bees have left the gallery, seal the openings with plugs, putty, or caulk. Carpenter bees love unpolished or aged wood. To make exposed wood surfaces around your home less appealing to bees, paint or varnish them. To keep bees out of your home, cover outside apertures with fine mesh screens or caulk for minor cracks.

Client Testimonials

The company is prompt to respond and they follow up with texts and emails. Mudssar did a professional work for us, helping us to evict carpenter ants who made a nest somewhere in our house. He gave us the instructions before and after the treatment. So far we are happy.
Respicaire Tube
Respicaire Tube
12:54 07 Jul 23
I contacted GTA Pest control on a Thursday 7 PM before the July 1 long weekend and they were kind enough to accommodate me an appointment next day (Friday) which was so appreciative. The exterminator came on time and did the job well. Issue is resolved now. Thanks to Sidra and her Team in GTA Pest Control.
Alokendu Bhattacharya
Alokendu Bhattacharya
00:19 11 Jul 23
Thank you Ahmed for your service. Ahmed was early for the appointment, professional and thorough. He explained the procedure and was very friendly.
lucy vetta
lucy vetta
18:11 30 May 23
I’ve been using this company for 6+ years now. They always do a great job so I have them come out every couple of years to do treatment in the house to keep those mice away! The joys of living near a ravine.
Christine Rodolfo
Christine Rodolfo
19:59 08 Feb 23
They were so organized and helpful when I called to book an appointment. And the person who came to our house to spray the wasp nest was very competent, knowledgeable and kind. Thank you!
Sanam Devine
Sanam Devine
18:38 31 Jul 23