Carpenter Bees

Are carpenter bees dangerous?

While female carpenter bees are capable of stinging, they seldom do, and only if handled or provoked. Carpenter bee stings may be painful and might leave behind red, swollen welts. Of course, like other stinging insects, their stings can have serious and even life-threatening health consequences for individuals who are allergic to bee venom. Medical attention should be sought if the victim has difficulty breathing, a swollen tongue, nausea, or other signs of an allergic reaction.

Male carpenter bees do not sting but are known for their aggressive and menacing behavior when trying to protect their space.

It’s important to note that carpenter bees often cause cosmetic damage to homes, decks, and other wood surfaces when they bore into wood in order to create nests in which to lay eggs. Repeated nest building can result in structural damage.

What attracts carpenter bees?

Carpenter bees are attracted to wood that has not been painted or stained. Decks, fences, and wood siding are common targets for these pests. They may also be lured to your property by flowers as they eat plant nectar and pollen, not wood.

How can I prevent a carpenter bee infestation?

In order to keep carpenter bees away and avoid carpenter bee damage, we recommend painting, staining, or varnishing all exposed wood on your property. You should also fill in existing holes so that carpenter bees can not reuse them.