Carpenter Bees in Georgia
Health RiskLow
Damage RiskMedium
NuisanceMedium
How to Identify Carpenter Bees
Carpenter bees can be recognized by their bee-like appearance, glossy black abdomen, and frequent activity around exposed wood surfaces.
- Actual Size 12 to 25 mm
- Characteristics Large with fuzzy yellow and black thoraxes, shiny black abdomens, and strong bodies adapted for tunneling into wood.
- Legs 6
- Antennae Yes
- Wings Yes
What Do Carpenter Bees Do?
These bees feed on nectar and pollen from a variety of flowering plants and are most visible when hovering near untreated wood surfaces and outdoor structures.
- They are often mistaken for bumblebees, but instead have shiny, hairless black abdomens.
- Female carpenter bees can sting, though they are usually not aggressive unless directly handled.
- Commonly nest in untreated or weathered wood such as decks, fences, siding, and eaves.
- Repeated nesting activity over time can weaken wood and attract woodpeckers searching for larvae.
Where Do You Find Carpenter Bees?
Commonly seen near untreated wood surfaces and flowering landscapes, where they drill nesting holes and forage from plant to plant. Common places you’ll find carpenter bees include:
- Wooden decks and railings
- Fences made from untreated wood
- Roof eaves and soffits on homes
- Wooden sheds, barns, and outbuildings
- Porch ceilings and wooden beams
- Outdoor furniture made from softwood
- Flower gardens and landscaped yards
- Wooden playsets, pergolas, and gazebos
What Should I Do If I Have Carpenter Bees in Georgia?
Carpenter bees are generally not aggressive, but they can become a concern when they repeatedly tunnel into wooden structures around homes and outdoor spaces. If you’re dealing with carpenter bees, the following steps are highly recommended:
- Inspect wooden structures for round entry holes and signs of tunneling activity.
- Seal or paint exposed wood surfaces to make them less attractive for nesting.
- Replace or repair heavily damaged wood around decks, fences, and eaves.
- Fill abandoned carpenter bee holes with wood filler or caulk after activity stops.
- Watch for increased bee activity during the spring and early summer nesting season.
- Keep outdoor wooden structures regularly maintained and protected from moisture.
- Contact professional pest control if carpenter bee activity is widespread or causing structural damage.
Top 5 FAQs About Carpenter Bees in Georgia
Need information on carpenter bees? Explore our most frequently asked questions below. If you still have questions, contact us by phone or email.
Are carpenter bees dangerous?
They are generally not aggressive, but females can sting if handled or directly threatened.
Why are carpenter bees boring into my wood?
They tunnel into untreated or weathered wood to create nesting galleries for raising their young.
Do carpenter bees live in colonies?
No, most carpenter bees are solitary, though they may nest in the same general area.
What damage do carpenter bees cause?
Their tunneling can weaken wooden structures like decks, fences, siding, and eaves over time.
When should I call a professional for carpenter bees?
Contact a pest control professional if you see widespread tunneling or repeated activity in multiple wooden areas of your property.
