What it Looks Like: Carpenter bees are large, about ½ to 1 inch long, and often mistaken for bumblebees. The key difference is their shiny, black abdomen. Females are typically all black, while males have yellow fuzz on their upper body. You might see them hovering near wood structures like decks or eaves, and small round holes in wood are a clear sign they’re around.
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Understanding the Carpenter Bee Problem
Carpenter bees may look like bumblebees, but unlike their fuzzy counterparts, these insects can be highly destructive. Instead of pollinating flowers, they tunnel into untreated wood to create nests. Over time, their burrowing can weaken wooden structures, including decks, fences, and home exteriors. Often times, you’ll need to get rid of carpenter bees if you notice them around your home.
Damage They Cause
Carpenter bees don’t consume wood like termites, but their drilling can compromise the structural integrity of wooden surfaces. The round, dime-sized holes they create weaken beams, leaving them vulnerable to moisture and decay. In addition, their presence attracts woodpeckers, which may cause further damage by pecking at the wood to extract bee larvae.
The Importance of Effective Carpenter Bee Control
If left unchecked, carpenter bees can cause recurring damage year after year. Learning how to get rid of carpenter bees and implementing long-term deterrents can help protect your property from their destructive behavior.
Identifying Carpenter Bees vs. Other Bees
Appearance & Behavior
Carpenter bees are often mistaken for bumblebees, but there are a few key differences. They have a shiny black abdomen, whereas bumblebees have a fuzzy, hairy one. Carpenter bees are also more solitary, typically nesting alone instead of forming colonies.
Difference from Bumblebees
- Carpenter bees: Smooth, shiny black abdomen, larger size, solitary nesters.
- Bumblebees: Fuzzy yellow and black bodies, social behavior, nest in the ground.
Signs of Carpenter Bees
- Small, round holes in wood surfaces (about ½ inch in diameter).
- Sawdust-like shavings below entry holes.
- Slow-moving bees hovering near wooden structures.
- Yellowish-brown staining near entrance holes from bee excrement.
10 Effective Ways to Get Rid of Carpenter Bees
1. Seal Existing Carpenter Bee Holes
If carpenter bees have already made their way into your woodwork, sealing their holes is essential. Wait until nightfall when the bees are inside their tunnels, then:
- Use wood filler, caulk, or steel wool to close off entry points.
- Paint or stain over the area to prevent future burrowing.
- Consider applying insecticide dust before sealing for extra protection.
2. Paint or Stain Wood Surfaces
Carpenter bees prefer untreated wood for nesting. Painting or staining wood creates a protective barrier that discourages them from drilling.
- Opt for oil-based or polyurethane finishes for added protection.
- Focus on high-risk areas like decks, railings, and wooden siding.
3. Use Citrus or Almond Oil as a Natural Repellent
Carpenter bees dislike strong citrus and almond scents. To create a natural deterrent:
- Boil lemon, orange, or lime peels in water and spray the solution on affected areas.
- Apply almond oil directly to wooden surfaces where bees are active.
4. Install a Carpenter Bee Trap
Carpenter bee traps mimic their natural nesting sites, luring them in before trapping them.
- Position traps near existing bee activity for best results.
- Purchase commercial carpenter bee traps or make your own using drilled wooden boxes with plastic containers.
5. Apply Residual Insecticides
If natural methods aren’t enough, using a carpenter bee insecticide may be necessary.
- Choose Bifenthrin, Cypermethrin, or Deltamethrin-based sprays.
- Apply in the evening when bees are less active.
- Reapply as needed, especially during peak nesting season (spring to early summer).
6. Use Noise to Drive Them Away
Carpenter bees are sensitive to vibrations. If they have taken up residence in your home’s woodwork, try placing a portable speaker near the nest and playing loud music or vibrations for a few days to encourage them to leave.
7. Hang a Paper Bag (Fake Hornet Nest Trick)
Carpenter bees are territorial and tend to avoid areas where they think hornets or wasps are nesting.
- Fill a brown paper bag with crumpled paper and hang it near areas where carpenter bees are active.
- This creates the illusion of a hornet’s nest and deters new infestations.
8. Install Hardwood or Metal Flashing
Protect vulnerable wood by installing metal or plastic flashing.
- Cover wooden rafters, beams, and siding with metal sheeting.
- Use pressure-treated hardwood, which is less appealing to carpenter bees.
9. Encourage Natural Predators
Several animals help control carpenter bee populations:
- Birds (Woodpeckers, Blue Jays, and Wrens) prey on carpenter bee larvae.
- Spiders and predatory insects also contribute to natural pest control.
10. Call a Professional Exterminator (Last Resort)
If the infestation is severe, hiring a pest control expert may be necessary.
- Professional exterminators use advanced treatments like pesticide dusts and foam applications.
- Expect to pay between $150-$500 for full removal and prevention services.
Preventing Future Carpenter Bee Infestations
Regular Wood Treatments & Inspections
- Conduct seasonal inspections for new holes or wood damage.
- Reapply paint or sealant every few years to maintain protection.
Keeping Outdoor Areas Clean & Well-Maintained
- Store woodpiles, logs, and untreated wood indoors when possible.
- Remove old nests to discourage future infestations.
When to Check for New Nests Each Season
- Early spring: Bees emerge from old nests and look for new burrowing sites.
- Late summer: Second generation may attempt to establish new nests.
Conclusion
Combining Multiple Methods for Best Results
The best way to get rid of carpenter bees is by using a combination of methods. Start with natural deterrents, seal up entry points, and use traps to reduce their numbers. If necessary, consider insecticides or professional extermination.
Ongoing Vigilance to Keep Carpenter Bees Away
Once you’ve removed carpenter bees, maintaining a proactive approach ensures they won’t return. With proper wood treatments, inspections, and preventive strategies, you can keep your home and garden carpenter bee-free year after year.
By following these strategies, homeowners can effectively get rid of carpenter bees and prevent long-term damage to their property. Whether using natural repellents, traps, or professional services, taking action early is key to keeping these wood-boring insects at bay.
