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Are carpenter bees dangerous? Although the male cannot sting, he can cause concern because of his buzzing around. This behavior is usually what causes people to ask if carpenter bees are dangerous.
Carpenter Bees in Missouri
The name Carpenter Bee applies to several species of bees in the U.S. that excavate tunnels in sound wood. The only species of economic importance found in Missouri is Xylocopa virginica. They are similar in size and appearance to bumblebees, but the top surface of the abdomen is black, almost entirely hairless and shiny.
Males have a white face, whereas the female’s face is black. Remember that fact because the female is the only one that can sting.
Where do you find Carpenter Bees?
Carpenter bees are often seen hovering near decks, eaves, and gables of homes. Male carpenter bees patrol these areas and will fly near people. They defend territories and may appear aggressive, but they are unable to sting, so their aggression is just for show. Female carpenter bees do not actively defend nesting sites and are usually not aggressive, but remember, females can sting if they are aggravated.
Carpenter bees are normally considered beneficial insects because they pollinate a wide variety of plant species. However, when they begin making tunnels in your home’s deck, eaves, and other wooden structures, they are considered a pest.
Although carpenter bees attack many species of dried, seasoned wood, they seem to prefer softwoods such as pine, fir, redwood, and cedar. You may see holes appear in your porch and shed trim, overhead trim, wooden porch furniture, dead tree limbs, fence posts, wooden shingles and siding, windowsills, and wooden doors. Unsightly defecation stains may be present near the openings to carpenter bee tunnels. Preferred nesting sites are usually at least 2 inches thick.
If you suspect carpenter bees are repurposing your home as a hive, having the problem addressed quickly is crucial for preventing structural and aesthetic damage.
Call Holper’s Pest & Animal Solutions today at (314) 887-7102 to schedule a free inspection. If bees are present, we’ll perform carpenter bee removal quickly and comprehensively.
