From the pests that go bump in the night to the creatures that go ‘buzz’ in the day, the pests in Lexington take many unique shapes and forms. Most of us assume that the size of an insect or the sound a creature makes is directly equivalent to its power or aggressiveness, but this is not always the case. The humble carpenter bee is one of these insects, it is far less dangerous than its large size would suggest.
The most common species of carpenter bee is between 1 - 2 inches long, with a long, black, visually hairless abdomen. The wings are symmetrical and will not be longer than the endpoint of the abdomen. Male carpenter bees show aggression by flying near to or just over the heads of those passing by, although they cannot sting. When aggravated or threatened, female carpenter bees will sting, which they can do multiple times, unlike their honeybee cousins. Thankfully, this species of stinging insect is generally benevolent and even easy-going.
It is easy to get carpenter bees confused with similar species of stinging insects, although there are a few distinctive differences that help to identify them quickly.
- Carpenter bees do not have hairs or ‘fuzz’ all over their bodies like bumblebees.
- Although they usually display acts of aggression, carpenter bees do not sting frequently.
- Carpenter bees nest inside of wood and do not build hives.
- Bumblebees live in social hives, while carpenter bees are solitary insects that rarely interact with other members of their species.
Even if this stinging insect is relatively benign to humans and human activity, they can cause significant problems to the structures of homes and businesses.
Benefits And Drawbacks Of Carpenter Bees
Carpenter bees provide many benefits to the environment. However, these insects are still capable of causing problems.
- Carpenter bees are native pollinators that contribute to the successful reproduction of millions of plants every year. Their ‘buzz’ pollination techniques are more effective than any other type of pollination. It is a process that only larger bee species can provide.
- Carpenter bees get their name from a tendency to bore into unfinished or unvarnished wood in order to lay their eggs. If left untreated, female bees will, over time, fill wood on your deck, porch, trim, and siding with large 1/2 inch holes.
- Carpenter bee nesting habits often catch the attention of large predators, including woodpeckers. Using their sharp beaks, these pest birds will peck through and destroy wooden surfaces in an effort to reach carpenter bee larvae.
If you begin to notice holes bored into wood, unexplained frass (sawdust) around the exterior of the home, or a large amount of bee activity, you may have a carpenter bee infestation. It is important to immediately address the issue and prevent the population from swelling over the course of the growing season. Remember that DIY techniques and other home remedies will rarely abate a fully established infestation.
If you are not sure of the total extent of carpenter bee damage in your home, schedule a no-obligation home inspection from a professional Lexington pest control technician now.
Save The Bees And Your Sanity With Action Pest Control
For the safe and effective removal of carpenter bees around your Lexington home, contact the professionals at Action Pest Control. Armed with foundational knowledge and in-the-field experience, Action Pest Control is proud to serve hundreds of households all over Kentucky, Indiana, and Illinois. To discover the difference Action Pest Control can make in your life, call our local office directly or fill out the short contact form online. Our team is ready to provide the most efficient pest control solutions for your carpenter bee concerns and beyond.