CARPENTER BEES (Xylocopa spp.)

Biology

• Large, ½ to 1 inch in length, robust, resemble bumble bees, but abdomen is dark, shiny and relatively hairless.

Distribution/Habits

• Tunnel into wood
• Prefer bare unpainted or unstained wood
• Attack wooden decks, fascia boards, fences, wood siding and window sills
• Entrance hole measures 3/8 to ½ inch in diameter.
• Normally there is a pile of sawdust below entrance hole.