Carpenter Bees

At Ozane Termite & Pest Control, located in Toms River, New Jersey, carpenter bees are a common concern for homeowners, especially during the warmer months. Though these large, solitary bees may initially seem harmless, they can cause substantial damage to wooden structures over time. Here's what you need to know about carpenter bees and their impact on Toms River residents.

Identifying Carpenter Bees
Carpenter bees are often confused with bumblebees due to their similar size and appearance. However, there are notable differences. Carpenter bees have shiny, black abdomens, whereas bumblebees display hairy, yellow-striped abdomens. Adult carpenter bees measure between 1/2 to 1 inch long and are commonly seen hovering around wooden surfaces such as decks, fences, and home eaves.

Why Carpenter Bees Are Harmful
Unlike termites, carpenter bees don't consume wood. Instead, they drill into it to create nesting chambers for their eggs. Female carpenter bees use their strong mandibles to carve out perfectly round holes in soft or untreated wood. Over time, this nesting can cause significant structural damage to:

• Decks and porches
• Fascia boards and eaves
• Wooden siding
• Fences
• Outdoor furniture

While a single pair of carpenter bees may not immediately cause harm, the problem escalates when they return each year to expand their nests. This repetitive activity weakens the wood and can result in costly repairs.

Carpenter Bees in Toms River, NJ
Toms River's coastal landscape, with its mixture of wooded areas and homes built with wooden features, creates the ideal environment for carpenter bees. Homes with untreated or weathered wood are especially vulnerable. Carpenter bees become highly active in the spring as they search for nesting spots. If left unchecked, these infestations can worsen year after year, with more bees returning to drill new tunnels or expand existing ones.

Are Carpenter Bees Dangerous?
A common concern is whether carpenter bees pose a threat. Fortunately, male carpenter bees cannot sting, and while they may seem aggressive when defending their nests, they are generally harmless. Female carpenter bees can sting but rarely do unless provoked or handled.

One complication, however, is that carpenter bees often attract woodpeckers, which feed on their larvae. This can lead to further damage as woodpeckers peck at the wooden structures to reach the bee larvae.

Signs of a Carpenter Bee Infestation
Here are some common indicators that carpenter bees may be present around your home:

• Round Entry Holes: Carpenter bees drill small, round holes, usually the size of a dime, often found on the undersides of beams, decks, or eaves.
• Sawdust: As they tunnel, carpenter bees push out small piles of sawdust, which accumulate below their entry holes.
• Bee Activity: Large, black-and-yellow bees hovering near wooden structures, especially in spring and early summer, are a sign of carpenter bee activity.
• Woodpecker Damage: If carpenter bees are present, you may also notice woodpecker damage as they target the larvae inside the wood.

At Ozane Termite & Pest Control, we offer expert solutions to prevent carpenter bees from damaging your home. Our treatments help stop the cycle of recurring infestations, protecting your property year-round. Start your free quote with our local pest control company.

Similar Pests: Yellow Jackets, Great Black Wasp, Paper Wasp