Beware of These 5 Common Signs of a Carpenter Bee Infestation
As the summer heat kicks in, it’s important to stay alert for potential pest threats that could damage your home. Carpenter bees, known for their wood-boring habits, are particularly active in New York this time of year. Don’t let these pests cause costly damage to your property!
Here are five signs that you might have a carpenter bee infestation.
Carpenter Bee Sign #1: Circular Holes in Wooden Surfaces
If you think you might have a carpenter bee problem, one of the most obvious signs is the appearance of circular holes in wooden surfaces on your property. Carpenter bees create perfectly round holes in wood to lay their eggs. These holes are often found in eaves, decks, and other wooden structures.
Unlike termites, carpenter bees don’t eat wood; instead, they tunnel into it to create their nests. These entrance holes are typically about half an inch in diameter, and if you spot them in any of your New York home’s wooden structures, it’s a sign that you should take action immediately to prevent further damage.
Carpenter Bee Sign #2: Sawdust Trails
If you notice small piles of sawdust near wooden surfaces, it could be a sign of carpenter bees boring into your wood. This sawdust, also known as frass, is a byproduct of their tunneling activities. Carpenter bees create these tunnels to lay their eggs and protect their larvae. The presence of sawdust trails is a telltale sign that these bees are making themselves at home in your wooden structures. To get ahead of carpenter bee activity, regularly inspect areas such as decks, wooden railings, and eaves.
Carpenter Bee Sign #3: Faint Buzzing Sounds
Maybe you’ve been hearing a buzzing sound near wooden structures like your back deck? Carpenter bees are active during the day and can often be heard buzzing as they work on their tunnels. This buzzing is not just an annoyance; it’s a clear indication that carpenter bees are actively nesting in your wood. If you hear persistent buzzing sounds, it’s time to investigate further.
Carpenter Bee Sign #4: Yellow Stains on Wood
Yellow stains near the entrance holes can also be a sign of carpenter bee activity. The bees’ excrement causes these stains as they enter and exit their nests, leaving behind a yellowish-brown stain that can be quite noticeable on lighter-colored wood. If you spot these stains near the round entrance holes, it’s a likely indicator that carpenter bees are nesting in your wood.
Carpenter Bee Sign #5: Increased Bee Activity
Sounds simple enough, but if you see more bees than usual around your home, especially near your deck, eaves, or other wooden components, you likely have a carpenter bee infestation. Carpenter bees are often mistaken for bumblebees due to their similar appearance, but they have distinct habits that set them apart. Increased activity around wooden eaves, railings, and decks indicates carpenter bees are nesting.
How We Knock Out Carpenter Bees
At Knockout Pest Control, we specialize in effectively managing carpenter bee infestations. Our comprehensive Integrated Pest Management Annual Package KO-12 Program provides year-round pest protection. This program is designed to safeguard your home from a wide range of pests, including carpenter bees. We use advanced techniques and eco-friendly solutions to tackle infestations while keeping your home and family safe. Our approach not only eliminates existing carpenter bees but also prevents future infestations.
Schedule an Estimate with Knockout Pest Control
Don’t let carpenter bees damage your home this summer. If you’ve noticed any of the signs mentioned above, it’s time to take action. Contact Knockout Pest Control today to schedule an estimate. Our team of experts will assess your situation and develop a tailored plan to eliminate the carpenter bees and protect your property.
Contact us now and let’s knock out those carpenter bees together!
