Carpenter Bees, The Wood Warriors
Most people consider bees and wasps pests that they must get rid of. But that is not true. Most of these tiny insects are considered beneficial to the ecosystem. The most significant benefit that bees provide is pollination.
Wasps, on the other hand, play an essential role in controlling many insect pest species. Florida is home to many different types of bees. Bumblebees, honeybees, carpenter bees are just a few of Florida bees.
Different Types of Bees
There are five species of bumblebees in Florida. Familiar to most with their large, fuzzy, black and yellow striped bodies, these types of bees often nest in the ground. And do bumble bees sting? Yes, they do, when threatened. Their sting is known to be one of the most painful stings one can ever feel.
Killer bees, also known as Africanised bees can be quite dangerous. These bees attack in significant numbers and are known to chase people for over a quarter of a mile. Honeybees, on the other hand, are really not aggressive. Instead, they are defensive and attack only if there is a threat to their colony.
Carpenter Bees
Named after their habit of excavating holes in deck railings and wooden sidings; carpenter bees are solitary bees. They build nests for themselves and their young. These bees drill through soft wood to lay eggs. These tunnels can be up to 10 feet long and are known to cause structural damage. Getting rid of carpenter bees is not an easy task as their nests can be hard to reach. Though there are some chemicals available in the market, you can also opt for some home remedies to control carpenter bees.
Tips to Control Carpenter Bees
- Spray citrus sprays on the affected areas. Carpenter bees have a natural hatred of citrus oil.
- Block the holes. Closing all the entries to their nest is also a useful method to get rid of carpenter bees.
- Store-bought bee sprays are a traditional method to get rid of these bees. Spray them directly into the holes and cover the holes with duct tape. Repeat the process after 24 hours.
- Spraying diesel or petrol in the burrows will also kill the bees.
- Boric acid serves as a poison for the bees. Spray boric acid in the holes to kill their larvae before they hatch.
- Carpenter bees cannot tolerate loud noise. So setting up a boom box next to their nest will encourage them to fly away.
- These bees cannot tolerate the smell of almond oil. Pour some almond oil into their holes to get rid of them.
- Use the smallest nozzle that your vacuum cleaner has, to suck these bees out. Be sure to do this in the evening as that’s when all the bees are in.
- Use diatomaceous earth to cover up the holes. This naturally occurring earth has microscopic sharp edges which but through the bees.
- Carpenter bees don’t burrow holes in wood that is painted. So, painting the structure is also a useful method to prevent infestation.
- Another preventive measure is to use vinyl siding. Vinyl siding has a non-wooden surface that can’t be damaged by these bees.
Use Protective Clothing
It is critical to wear protective clothing while using all these pest control techniques. Although Carpenter Bees are solitary bees and do not attack in groups, it is possible to get stung while performing a treatment. If the nests are located in hard to reach areas or if you are allergic to carpenter bees, you must seek the services of professional. Bee experts from Broward County Pest Control have the knowledge and the training to deal with all kinds of bees.
So, the next time you notice sawdust piles next to wooden furniture, make sure you call Broward County Pest Control.