Pest ID Learn about the pests that impact homes and businesses across Central Massachusetts.

Worcester Pest Identification: Pest ID: Carpenter Bees

Carpenter bees, often mistaken for bumblebees, are 12–25mm in length with shiny abdomens. Males have a white space on their head. They have a four-stage life cycle: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Females lay eggs in nests made of old, soft wood. Contrary to belief, carpenter bees don't eat wood; they live on pollen and nectar. Females sting rarely, usually when handled.

Nests start with a ½ inch entrance hole, leading to tunnels that can be 6 inches to 4 feet long. Carpenter bees reuse old nests, drilling new tunnels if needed. Mating occurs once a year, eggs are laid in July, and females may share nests. Carpenter bees don't have queens or workers; only females build nests. Damage is minimal, but infestation can weaken old structures.

Signs of carpenter bees include holes in wood, sawdust on the ground, bees flying into nests, and excrement near entrances. To keep them away, paint wood with polyurethane, use almond oil, plug entrances with wood dowels coated in glue, or use a citrus spray.

If you suspect a carpenter bee infestation, please give us a call for an inspection.

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