There are three things the average person knows about bees. One is that they swarm around flowers and plants to collect nectar so they can produce honey. The second is that their pollination and feeding activities support the environment. The third is that they can sting humans and bring great pain. But this isn’t the whole story. There are many kinds of bees, and some are more dangerous and/or destructive than others.
Carpenter bees, for example, dig into the wood. By getting the 411 on these pests, you’ll have the information necessary to guard your property. Moreover, you’ll have details on how Big Blue Bug Solutions can lend a hand with extermination.
What Do Carpenter Bees Look Like? How Do They Behave?
Smaller carpenter bees are about 5/16 of an inch long, if not tinier. Sometimes, their dark and metallic bodies have yellow markings on them. The larger bees in this class are 15/32 to 63/64 of an inch long. Visually, they are very similar to bumblebees, but they have fewer body hairs. Varying in shade, they can be blue, greenish-black, purple-blue, or black. Males have yellow facial marks and are incapable of stinging.
Carpenter bees gravitate to wood that is weathered or unfinished. Redwood, cypress, pine, fir, and oak really drives them wild. When they’re done retrieving pollen and nectar from greenery, they’ll go for wood. You’re liable to see them fluttering around porches and decks, siding, and roof eaves. Other hot spots include doors, windowsills, fences, railings, and yard furniture. The longer they are allowed to linger, the more visible their wreckage will be. You likely have an infestation if you see the following:
- Noticeable little holes in foundations and wood
- Fecal smears and specks near the drill holes
- Piles of pollen and sawdust beneath the entrance holes
- Carpenter bees anywhere in the area
How Can Carpenter Bees Be Prevented?
Being diligent about prevention is critical with carpenter bees, considering what they are capable of. To keep these bugs away, care for your lawn and evaluate the structural quality of your property:
- If you have any unfinished wood on your land, paint it.
- Wood that is often exposed to the sun or rain should be varnished. Apply a fresh paint coat to weathered decks and sills.
- Cracks and gaps around foundations need to be sealed.
- Close holes created by previous carpenter bee swarms. You can try using caulk.
- Use a residual insecticide in places that bees tend to go to.
- Groom your greenery, and have it distanced from your property’s exterior.
What Can Big Blue Bug Solutions Do About Carpenter Bees?
A lot of people assume that they can eliminate bees on their own. They might try spraying a retail product directly on a bee or knocking down a nest with a broom. This is not recommended. Home and business owners can buy the wrong treatment item, misunderstand the instructions, or use it incorrectly. Plus, it’s never a good idea to agitate bees. If you’re stung, the outcome could be dire. You might have skin inflammation. And some people have an intense allergic reaction to their venom.
You can guarantee both your safety and safe bee removal by contacting us at Big Blue Bug Solutions. Our technicians are licensed and insured. They know how to properly locate and address every space impacted by carpenter bees, and employ methods to prevent future infestations. Our gold standard of service is why we’ve been in business for over 80 years. Take advantage of our comprehensive plans and routine visits now! Call today!