One of the most annoying features of both spring and summer for many is the sheer amount of insects that come with the season. Gnats and mosquitoes are especially despised due to their habit of physically seeking out people. However, one of the most detrimental pests of the springtime is often overlooked since they aren’t very aggressive at all: the carpenter bee.

Not all carpenter bees sting; only the females have stingers. They are not much more aggressive than any other bee. In fact, they are usually less hostile, and they are actually incapable of biting humans; they lack the mouthparts for it. So what makes them such a big issue?

The big problem with these bees is that they have the frustrating habit of creating structural damage by chewing into wood. Like termites, they weaken structures, but instead of eating it, they do it to create nesting chambers for eggs. The holes, while already weakening the wood, can also cause mold and water to seep into the foundation while also attracting woodpeckers to the holes to eat larvae and be even more of a nuisance.

While annoying, these bees can be repelled. Sealing old holes can help keep the bees away, along with keeping good care of any old wood. Additionally, applying essential oils to the wood can prevent drilling, as the bees hate the smell and will try to avoid it. 

Carpenter bees are irritating, but there are ways people can decrease or prevent the damage that they cause.