Characteristics

Because they also pollinate flowers, carpenter bees are sometimes confused with bumblebees. While they are similar in size and color, carpenter bees have a shiny belly. Males are not able to sting. Females will typically sting only when provoked.

Unlike termites, carpenter bees do not eat wood, but rather create tunnels through wood structures to build nests. Even so, these pest tend to return to the same area year after year, which means over time your Monmouth County home can become susceptible to hundreds of small holes. That can add up to major structural damage, or an ‘accident waiting to happen.’

Bees flying around homes are often likely carpenter bees.

Nests

Carpenter ants will often choose homes as a place for nesting because of the ‘convenience factor.’ These pests will nest on porches, in roof crevices, inside garages, carports, sheds, on fences, window trip, lamp posts, lawn furniture and nearly every wood object. Carpenter ants tend to reject wood that is painted or treated, but this does not mean they will not damage this material if no other option is available to them.

Detection

It can be difficult to notice whether your property has been affected by carpenter bees, however there are some methods available to determine the presence of these pests.

One of the most revealing signs of a possible infestation is half-inch round holes in dry wood. Often times, this will be accompanied by the presence of sawdust near the affected wood.

Prevention

It may be difficult for the average homeowner to effectively eliminate carpenter bees from their property. There are, however, some preventative measures you can take.

Since carpenter bees tend to return to the same area from year to year, and because they prefer bare, untreated wood, it may be wise to paint and/or treat any wood around your home. This includes decks and porches.

Search around your home for cracks and openings carpenter bees could use to gain access to the structure and build a nest, and then be sure to seal these openings.

It is then important to contact a certified professional to manage and control any potential carpenter bee infestation. The experts at Alliance Pest Services can also provide you with tips and tools to prevent a future infestation from occurring. 

Store-bought pesticides can be harmful to pets and children, including babies. In many cases, one or two applications will do nothing to treat or prevent an infestation. This is why it is important to ensure your pest problem is being handled by a professional, who will determine and administer the safest and most effective solution to your carpenter bee problem. For effective carpenter bee control, contact us today!