Do Carpenter Bees Damage Your House?

Carpenter Bees
Carpenter Bees

Carpenter bees are often confused with the other large species – the bumblebee. While similar in appearance, they are two different types of bees. Carpenter bees are formidable aerialists and not the most social. They are known to hover around people and dive bomb them when agitated.

The male carpenter bee does not sting. His is more a show of bravado. The female can sting but not as a general rule. She must be provoked to go on the attack.

Carpenter bees make their nests during the winter where they’ll hibernate until warmer weather. The female drills into wood which can be fences, decks, window frames, or any other wood structure. She may use the same nest from year to year which can result in damage to areas of your home over time.

In the spring, mating season begins and this is when you’ll see bees out and about. The female bee is busy digging new tunnels or refurbishing an old one. She’ll store food in the tunnel and lay an egg. In late summer, a new batch of carpenter bees emerge and make visits to the flower garden before the winter sets in.The cycle is repeated with hibernation during the winter and mating during the spring.

If carpenter bees are buzzing around your house, give us a call at Allison Pest Control. We have the knowledge and know-how to rid your home of unwanted guests.