Not everyone is a pest expert, but many know basic facts about insects and creatures prevalent around homes and businesses in Elizabeth City. For example, it’s commonly understood that bees make honey. Lots of people also recognize that they frequently hover over flowers and plants and contribute to the function of the ecosystem. Their feeding practices are vital to the environment. If nothing else, the stings of these flying insects are widely discussed because of the pain they bring. However, there’s more important information.
Several bee species, like the carpenter class, are especially threatening. They can destroy an entire building by attacking the wood. It would be best if you learned all you can about these busy critters, so you can effectively shield your property. Albemarle Termite & Pest Control can be of assistance to you.
How Do Carpenter Bees Behave? What Are the Hazards?
Carpenter bees are unique in that their appearances vary. Tinier ones are about 0.31 of an inch long. Their skin is dark and metallic and features yellow markings. The bigger bugs are 0.46 to 0.98 of an inch long. Some are black or greenish-black, while others are blue or purple-blue. Yellow splotches adorn the faces of males in the group, who are incapable of stinging. Carpenter bees get mixed up with bumblebees all the time, but they have a lower amount of body hair.
If weathered or unfinished wood is present on your land, expect to see carpenter bees. Pine, Cyprus, oak, redwood, and fir are among the grades they prefer. Only greenery receives equal attention from these pests because they need the nectar. You’ll probably catch them buzzing near doors, window sills, roof eaves, siding, porches, and decks. They’ll also take to railings, fences, and yard furniture. Before their ruins are apparent, you may notice the following infestation clues:
- Finding pin-sized openings in wood and foundations
- Discovering stains and fecal grains by their holes
- Seeing stacks of pollen and sawdust under bee entry points
- Having carpenter bee sightings
- Suddenly seeing woodpeckers- they consume carpenter bee larvae
What Are Ways to Prevent Carpenter Bees?
Folks with allergies to the venom or substances of stinging insects need to avoid carpenter bees at all costs. Outside of this, these pests are a greater danger to domiciles, establishments, and anything wooden. Related repairs are known to be very expensive. To successfully deter the bugs, you have to be dedicated to preventative measures. Prime protocols focus on exterior management since carpenter bees are always building nests. Perform these tasks:
- Have unfinished wood painted as soon as possible. Lay on a fresh coat to weathered decks and sills.
- Make sure wood is varnished if it’s under the sun, rainwater, or inclement conditions.
- Close up cracks in foundations, doors, windows, and rooflines.
- Seal prior bee voids. Caulk may be helpful.
- Get rid of any available standing water.
- Fix moisture malfunctions and leaks right away.
- Install metal flashing.
- Cut the grass and trim the greenery often—distance plants and flowers from the property by two feet.
How Will Albemarle Termite & Pest Control Handle Carpenter Bees?
Never try to combat bees on your own directly. You could be hurt going near these critters or their nests. Loads of them might sting you a multitude of times, which will increase the chances of a dire medical outcome. Retail sprays and other products could aggravate them or worsen the issue. It’s best to leave things up to us at Albemarle Termite & Pest Control. Our skilled Service Professionals will use safe interior and exterior home pest control treatments that are industrial-grade. Get started with a no-obligation inspection today!