How to Discourage Carpenter Bees

Carpenter bees feed on pollen.

Carpenter bees are a species of bees that are related to honey bees and bumble bees. Like other kinds of bees, carpenter bees are beneficial and economically important for their role in pollinating flowers and food crops. Even though they are often seen hovering around houses, they are usually not harmful to humans. Male carpenter bees have no stinger, and the female stings only if touched. However, carpenter bees can cause damage to homes and other structures when they tunnel into wood to build their nests. The best way to discourage carpenter bees is to paint any untreated wooden structures.

Things You'll Need

• Putty
• Putty knife
• Exterior primer and paint
• Paintbrush

Instructions

1. 

   Any unpainted wooden structure could become a carpenter bee nesting site.

   Identify likely carpenter bee nesting sites. Carpenter bees nest almost exclusively in untreated, unpainted wood. They look for sheltered areas that are protected from high winds and rain. Wood siding under the eves of a house, wooden fascia and wooden structures like garages and sheds are good nesting areas. Look for telltale holes or other damage.

2. 

   Fill holes with putty to discourage carpenter bees.

   Fill in any holes with putty. Carpenter bees return to the same nesting sites year after year -- the presence of old holes encourages them to nest in the area.

3. Paint the identified wooden structures. Apply two coats of good-quality exterior primer and at least one coat of finish paint. For structures that should not or cannot be painted, two coats of good-quality exterior varnish can be used instead. Wood stains do not prevent carpenter bee damage.

4. Inspect potential nest sites regularly, even after the wood has been painted. Exterior paints can deteriorate due to sun, weather and time, and may need to be repainted.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider covering or replacing wooden structures with aluminum, asphalt or vinyl siding if it is repeatedly damaged by carpenter bees.

• Carpenter bees are usually not aggressive, but a female bee in her nest will sting. Use caution when working near carpenter bee nesting sites.

References

• Ohio State University Extension Fact Sheet: Carpenter Bees
• University of Kentucky College of Agriculture: Carpenter Bees
• West Virginia University Extension Service: Carpenter Bees

Resources

• Alabama Cooperative Extension: Carpenter Bees - Biology and Management