As a rule, all pests are annoying. Some even take it a step further to be considered harmful. However, one pest known as the carpenter bee inspires a fair bit of panic for the wrong reasons. The reason for this is thanks to them being mistaken for bumblebees. In truth, carpenter bees are quite different from their cousin and actually get their name due to their habit of boring into wood similar to carpenter ants. Fortunately, they don’t eat the wood, but it doesn’t rule out the damage that occurs for homeowners.
At first glance, this bee looks like any other bee. If you closer though, there are some key differences to look for in carpenter bees such as a lack of yellow markings on their abdomen. Also, carpenter bees boast a smooth and shiny abdomen instead of the hairy ones that bumblebees have. Finally, you can identify if it’s a carpenter bee by its habits. This bee is a solitary one that doesn’t live in a colony like the other species. Instead, you’ll find individual nests in locations like outdoor trees or the frames, eaves, and sides of buildings.
Carpenter Bee Problems
Just like its cousins, this species of bee is known to cause problems for homeowners. However, they’re more of a threat to the property instead of the people residing on the premises. In fact, male carpenter bees don’t sting at all. While the female bees might sting, it’s extremely rare and they must be highly provoked. The sting is usually not a problem so long as an allergic reaction doesn’t occur.
So how do you know if you have a carpenter bee problem in the first place? The most common sign is the round and smooth holes created by the bee. As long as you perform a regular perimeter check, early detection shouldn’t be a problem. Of course, the other sign of a problem is seeing the bees themselves. If left unchecked, the level of property damage can become severe and costly to repair, which is why a prevention plan is ideal when it comes to carpenter bees.
Carpenter Bee Prevention
Without exception, it’s always easier to prevent an infestation than it is to correct an existing one. As such, we’ve collected three prevention tips for you to follow, so you remain protected today, tomorrow, and longer:
- Finish The Wood: This pest loves unfinished wood, which makes eaves, fences, overhangs, and even under the deck a prime target. If you varnish or paint the rood, it will create a natural resistance most carpenter bees won’t want to go through.
- Seal The Gaps: The carpenter bee is small and looking for ways to bore into your wood. If you have existing gaps, cracks, crevices, or holes then your home looks open for business. Take some silicone caulk and plug these entry points to remain protected. Just make sure you don’t accidentally trap a queen bee inside.
- Metal Flashing: You can use this material to protect the rough ends of deck boards and other similar items to make it more difficult for the carpenter bees to get inside.
Take Out The Bees With Innovative Pest Control
It’s important to keep your home protected from all pests, including carpenter bees. Left unchecked, you can have severe problems that can make living uncomfortable and even dangerous. That’s why here at Innovative Pest Control we’ve been the go-to for our residents for over 25 years when it comes to pest control. We provide superior protection against a variety of pests, so you can keep living comfortably. Our services are guaranteed so call us today at Innovative Pest Control to request your free, no-obligation inspection!
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- Carpenter Bee Prevention,
- Carpenter Bee Control,
- Bee Control,
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