Carpenter bees, known for their ability to bore into wood, can cause significant damage to wooden structures such as outdoor furniture, pergolas, and sheds. While these bees, part of the Xylocopa genus within the Apidae family, are important pollinators, their burrowing habits make them a common backyard pest in the United States.
It’s essential to recognize the signs of carpenter bee activity and act quickly to prevent further damage to your wooden features. Using environmentally-friendly, wildlife-safe methods is always preferred, but when natural repellents are not enough, there are other effective solutions to explore.
This guide outlines expert-recommended strategies for safely and effectively deterring carpenter bees. We’ve consulted pest control professionals to provide the most effective methods for removing these destructive pests while maintaining the health of your outdoor spaces.
Understanding Carpenter Bees
When dealing with pest control, it’s essential to accurately identify the type of insect before taking action. This is especially true for bees, where distinguishing between different species is important before attempting to use pesticides or natural control methods.
Carpenter bees, for instance, are often confused with bumblebees due to their similar appearance. However, there is a key characteristic that sets them apart: carpenter bees lack hair on their abdomens, giving them a smoother look compared to the fuzzy appearance of bumblebees.
Although close examination isn’t recommended, this smooth abdomen is a useful identifying feature.
How to Get Rid of Carpenter Bees: 9 Effective Methods
Carpenter bees, unlike honeybees or bumblebees, are solitary insects that prefer to excavate tunnels in wood to lay their eggs.
They are larger and have shiny black abdomens. While male carpenter bees do not sting, they can be aggressive when they feel their territory is threatened.
These bees often burrow into wooden furniture, soft tree bark, and decaying wood, potentially causing damage to your property. Here are nine methods to help you manage and prevent carpenter bee infestations.
1. Use a Dust Insecticide
According to pest control professionals, dust insecticides are one of the most effective ways to eliminate carpenter bees.
When applied to the holes created by the bees, the powder clings to the bees and ensures thorough coverage. Use insecticidal dust over liquid options, as the liquid absorbs too quickly into the wood and doesn’t last as long. Here’s how to apply it:
– Wear protective clothing, including a bee suit and gloves.
– Use a hand duster to apply the dust directly into the bee holes.
– Repeat the process once each season.
Smith advises against sealing the holes too soon, as the bees can simply create new tunnels.
Instead, wait until fall, a few days after the last application, before plugging the holes with wooden dowels or caulk.
2. Apply Natural Citrus Spray
If you’re looking for a wildlife-friendly solution, natural methods are ideal. Carpenter bees dislike citrus scents, making citrus sprays an effective deterrent.
You can create your own by boiling citrus fruit rinds in water or adding a few drops of citrus oil to a spray bottle. Apply the spray around bee holes to prevent further damage.
Almond oil can also be used as a natural repellent. Before applying these solutions, test them on a small, inconspicuous area of the wood to ensure they don’t cause staining.
3. Use Diatomaceous Earth
For an eco-friendly alternative, diatomaceous earth is a useful tool. Apply it directly into the bee holes during the evening when bees are less active.
Diatomaceous earth is a natural substance that dehydrates insects, making it an effective treatment. Protective gear is recommended when handling this substance, and follow-up treatments may be necessary to ensure the bees are fully eradicated.
Periodic applications might be needed, as some bees may survive the first round of treatment.
Using these methods can help you manage carpenter bees and protect your wooden structures from damage.
If you are unsure about handling insecticides or prefer professional help, contact a pest control expert to assist you.
4. Add Sound to Your Backyard
Carpenter bees are known to be sensitive to sound, particularly vibrations.
By playing loud music with low-frequency sounds near their nesting area, you might be able to encourage them to relocate. The noise disrupts their environment, making it less appealing.
If you opt for this method, be considerate of your neighbors. Inform them in advance, as playing loud music for extended periods can cause disturbances.
Alternatively, wind chimes may also work to deter carpenter bees with minimal noise impact.
5. Protect Wooden Surfaces with Varnish
Carpenter bees are attracted to untreated or unprotected wood, especially on decks, fences, and window sills.
One of the most effective ways to prevent infestations is by treating wooden surfaces with finishes like varnish, paint, or wood stain. These coatings create a protective barrier that repels the bees.
Different types of finishes are available, so it’s important to choose the right one for your specific wood type and outdoor furniture.
6. Use Carpenter Bee Traps
Carpenter bee traps are another option for managing infestations. These traps are specifically designed to capture carpenter bees by allowing them to enter but preventing their escape.
You can find pre-made traps online or at hardware stores. Position them near areas where bees have been active.
For a DIY approach, you can build your own trap. Construct a wooden box with angled holes for the bees to enter, and attach a clear plastic jar at the bottom. The bees will be drawn toward the light in the jar but will be unable to escape.
7. Use a Vinegar Solution
Vinegar isn’t just useful for killing weeds; it can also help control carpenter bees.
Create a strong mixture of vinegar and water and spray it directly into the bee’s holes.
This solution can kill carpenter bee larvae. However, if you prefer to deter the bees without harming them, you might want to explore more bee-friendly alternatives.
8. Apply Essential Oils
Certain essential oils can act as natural repellents for carpenter bees. Oils such as tea tree, citronella, and lavender can be mixed to create an effective DIY bug spray.
Apply the oils around affected areas to deter the bees. However, frequent reapplication is needed, as the effects wear off over time.
These oils work well but should be used regularly for the best results. Essential oil kits are widely available, making this a simple and eco-friendly solution.
9. Remove Wooden Objects
Carpenter bees are attracted to specific types of wood, such as cedar, redwood, and cypress.
Removing or avoiding these types of wood in outdoor structures can reduce the risk of bee damage.
It’s important to also clear away firewood piles, fallen trees, or untreated lumber that may attract carpenter bees.
Additionally, repairing any damaged or decaying wood as soon as possible is essential.
Carpenter bees prefer nesting in compromised wood, so regular inspections and timely repairs can prevent potential infestations while maintaining the integrity of your property.
The Difference Between Carpenter Bees and Bumble Bees
Carpenter bees and bumblebees may appear similar at first glance, but there are key differences between them. Carpenter bees are slightly larger than bumblebees and have a distinctive flight pattern. While bumblebees tend to fly in a straight line (hence the term “beeline”), carpenter bees seem to dart around more erratically, often appearing as if they’re chasing each other.
Another notable distinction is that carpenter bees bore into wood around homes, something bumblebees don’t do.
Bees are important pollinators in the ecosystem, but they become pests when they damage wooden structures around homes.
Unlike male carpenter bees, which are harmless, female carpenter bees can sting but will typically only do so if provoked.
Why Carpenter Bees Bore Holes
Carpenter bees, particularly females, create their own nesting spaces by boring holes into wood.
This behavior helps them create safe spots for laying their eggs. Female carpenter bees tend to prefer unfinished or softwood surfaces for this task, as it’s easier to bore through.
However, some species of carpenter bees will opt for hardwood to provide extra protection for their developing larvae.
With strong mandibles (jaw-like structures), these bees can chew holes a few inches deep in just a few hours.
The Extent of Damage Caused by Carpenter Bees
Carpenter bees can cause significant structural damage over time. Females often enlarge old nesting galleries or create intricate tunnel systems in the wood, following the grain.
Common nesting areas include wood siding, deck rails, and window frames.
Additionally, birds, such as woodpeckers, can exacerbate the damage by pecking at the wood to access carpenter bee larvae.
Over time, the damage from carpenter bees and bird activity can significantly threaten wooden structures.”
When to Call a Professional
Seeing a few carpenter bees doesn’t always require immediate action, but it becomes more concerning if you notice signs of damage or if you have an allergy to bee stings.
Female carpenter bees can sting when threatened, and the damage they cause can worsen over time.
In such cases, professional pest control may be necessary to prevent further harm to your home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Carpenter Bees
How can I identify carpenter bee damage?
Carpenter bee damage can often be spotted on wooden structures such as sheds, pergolas, posts, porches, window trims, and eaves.
These bees bore small, round holes—typically about ½ inch in diameter—into the wood. After creating this entry hole, they turn at a right angle to dig a hidden burrow, where they construct cells for their eggs.
Signs of their presence may include sawdust near these holes. Older holes may be reused or enlarged over time.
Additionally, adult carpenter bees can overwinter in these tunnels, emerging in spring to mate.
Over time, carpenter bee activity can lead to wood decay, moisture retention, and eventually, rot.
Can aluminum foil deter carpenter bees?
While aluminum foil can temporarily prevent carpenter bees from entering a hole, it won’t stop them from drilling a new one.
Once they’ve created a tunnel, they have the ability to make another if blocked.
Where do carpenter bees go at night?
Carpenter bees are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day.
At night, they typically seek shelter in their nest holes within wooden structures to rest.
Are carpenter bees beneficial?
Despite the damage they can cause to wooden structures, carpenter bees are also important pollinators.
They play a crucial role in pollinating plants and flowers in your yard.
Taking steps to prevent damage can help balance their beneficial role in the ecosystem.
What can keep carpenter bees away?
Paint or stain wood to prevent future attacks. You can also seal any chamber holes with wooden dowels or wood putty, ideally in late summer or early fall.
What smells do carpenter bees hate?
Citrus scents, lavender oil, and citronella oil are natural repellents for carpenter bees.
Mixing a few drops of any of these essential oils with water and spraying it around wood structures can help deter bees.
Can carpenter bees sting?
While male carpenter bees are stingless, females can sting, but they generally only do so if provoked, such as when someone attempts to touch them or disturb their burrows.
How can I get rid of carpenter bees without harming them?
Painting unfinished wood, filling holes with dowels or wood putty, and using citrus or essential oil sprays can all help keep carpenter bees away without killing them.
