Family Structure
- Name: Can literally drill through wood to make nest
- Drilling creates a 1/2″ hole that is nearly perfect
- Hole is usually located on the underside of any wood surface (e.g., fascia, siding, soffits, etc.)
- Female will then form a channel from about 6 inches to 4 feet where her eggs can grow.
- Male acts as the lookout or guard. Ironically, he has no stinger! Only the female can sting.
Appearance
- Approximately 1 inch
- Yellow and black
- Become active in early spring
- Resemble bumble bees, but have fewer hairs, shiny black abdomen, and no pollen sacs on the hind legs
- Do not live in colonies
- Rare to be stung by one, but sheer size is scary. People generally stay clear of them.
Habitat
- Nests, if left untreated, will result in widespread structural damage and expensive repairs within a few years.
- Female goes in and out of the nest, so be patient and you will find the entrance
Contact Us
Contact us for help with a Carpenter Bee problem. You may also call either our Central Coast office or our Ventura County office.
