| Description:
Carpenter bees are large (1/2-to 1-inch long), robust insects
that look like bumble bees. They differ by having a bare, shiny
black abdomen compared to bumble bees which have a hairy abdomen
with some yellow, markings. Male carpenter bees, identified by
the bright yellow spot in the middle of the head, are aggressive
but quite harmless since they lack stingers. Females can sting
if molested.
Habits:
Carpenter bees actually bore holes into wood to create a tunnel
in which to raise their young. Carpenter bees are not social
insects, i.e., they do not live in nests or colonies like yellow
jackets and honey bees. The entry hole is 3/8 to 1/2-inch in
diameter and initially about 6-inches long; in subsequent years,
however, this maybe extended to more than ten feet. The initial
opening' is straight into the wood, then the gallery typically
makes an abrupt right angle and follows the grain of the wood
and parallel to the outer surface. Entry holes are usually located
in well-lit and sheltered areas, such as headers, roof eaves,
porch ceilings, fascia boards, decks, doors, and window sills.
Soft wood, such as California redwood, cedar, white pine, and
poplar is preferred for nest building.
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