The Differences Between Carpenter Bees And Bumble Bees

It is not uncommon for home and business owners to misidentify bumble bees when in fact they have carpenter bees hanging around their home report Monmouth County, NJ exterminators.  There are subtle differences between the two species of bees that the average person is not aware of.  The knowledgeable exterminators at Allison Pest Control will easily be able to tell the difference between the two species when called to any home or business.

Here are some differences and similarities to look for between carpenter bees and bumble bees that are lurking about…

• Bumble bees are social insects that live together in a colony.  Each worker performs its tasks diligently for the good of the colony.

• Bumble bees are bright yellow with black accents.  Carpenter bees are also colorful, but they are not quite as bright yellow as the bumble bee.

• Bumble bees have a hairy body which is used to collect pollen that is taken back to their nest.  The carpenter bees abdomen surface is bare, shiny, and black.

• Carpenter bees are considered to be solitary insects.  Bumble bees live together in colonies.

• The female carpenter bee will drill a ½ inch hole in wood (preferably unpainted or unstained) where she will create a gallery to lay her eggs. Bumble bees will construct their nests underground, usually near a place where pollen is located nearby.

• Both types of bees are considered to be docile bees.  Neither will sting without being provoked and usually only will in order to protect their nest or when they are mishandled.  The male carpenter bee is unable to sting as it has no stinger.

Carpenter bees cause damage to decking, fascia, siding, trim, and exterior wood furniture.  Many people opt to hire a Monmouth County, NJ exterminator to stop carpenter bees and bumble bees that are found.


Posted

in

by