Carpenter Bees

Carpenter bees are harmless insects that bore into wood to lay eggs and raise their offspring. While they don’t consume wood, their tunnels, typically about half an inch in diameter, can reach lengths of up to 12 inches. If left unmanaged, future generations will expand these tunnels, which can sometimes extend up to three feet.

Prevention Tips

• Target Damaged Wood: Carpenter bees are attracted to weathered or fungus-damaged wood. Prevent infestations by maintaining and protecting vulnerable wood.
• Paint and Seal Wood: Keeping eave wood and other exposed areas well-painted is an effective deterrent. Carpenter bees are less likely to bore into painted surfaces.

Damage Repair

• Seal Tunnels: Repair existing tunnels with hard fillers, such as Bondo, or replace damaged wood to prevent further use by carpenter bees.

Control Measures

• Treat Before Repair: If elimination is necessary, it’s important to apply residual insecticidal dust into the entrance holes 12 to 24 hours before sealing them. This ensures any bees returning to the nest are eradicated before the tunnels are plugged with wood filler.