![]() ![]() In addition, most insect predators are generalist feeders and honey bees will be taken as prey by Bee Assassin Bugs which are ambush hunters. While we have observed Bee Assassin Bugs patrolling flowers in our Master Gardener Demonstration Gardens, they are mostly seen on leaves and stems areas not likely to be visited by honey bees. Some notations state that Bee Assassin Bug is a major threat to honey bee populations but we have not yet seen unbiased, research-based findings to support or disclaim this contention. ![]() Over time, the damage can result in decay, moisture retention, and rot.The Bee Assassin Bug ( Apiomerus crassipes)Īs its name would likely suggest, the Bee Assassin Bug is commonly reputed to feed on bees. Adult bees can overwinter in the tunnels, emerging in spring to mate. Older holes can also be enlarged or reused by the bees. You might spot sawdust by the holes where a bee has been boring. Once they’ve bored a smooth, round hole, about ½ in in diameter, they make a right-angled turn to construct a burrow, hidden from sight, creating cells for individual eggs. Carpenter bees like to bore their way into wood – especially sheds, pergolas, posts, porches, window trim and even the eaves of the house. To spot carpenter bee damage, take a closer look at wooden structures around the yard. But bother a female carpenter bee at your peril, as they can sting. The males don’t sting though they can fly too close for comfort if they feel you’re on their territory. Unlike honeybees or bumblebees, carpenter bees don’t live in colonies, preferring to excavate a tunnel to lay their eggs.Īlso, carpenter bees are much larger and have black and shiny abdomens. Plus, WD40 is highly flammable, toxic, and has a very strong scent. However, this is another method of getting rid of carpenter bees that isn't wildlife friendly. You can use WD40, available from Amazon, to get rid of carpenter bees – spray it into their nest and they will die or flee quickly. (Image credit: Naturepix / Alamy Stock Photo) 6. This will kill carpenter bee larvae, so if you are looking to deter them rather than kill them, you might want to look to more bee-friendly options. To get rid of carpenter bees with vinegar, mix up a strong solution of vinegar and water and spray it directly into the bees' holes. You can also make your own bee trap, constructing a wooden box with angled holes for the bee to enter, with a plastic jar fixed to the bottom – the bees get in and head towards the light but can’t get out. Choose one that’s designed specifically for carpenter bees, and hang the trap close to the affected wood. You can use a carpenter bee trap, such as these Original B Brothers designs from Amazon. ![]() It’s said that carpenter bees are affected by sound, so by turning up the volume close to the carpenter bees’ home, the vibrations might encourage them to move out. Do explain to your neighbors before blasting them with noise for a couple of days.Īnother option is to try wind chimes, which may be enough to deter them from settling. (Image credit: Scott Carruthers / Alamy Stock Photo) 3. Worried about getting too close to carpenter bees? We would always advise calling in a professional firm to do the job for you. Lengths of wooden dowelling or caulk can be used to plug the holes. Once the bees have died, seal up the holes to prevent them from being used by new bees. You might need to make repeat applications, starting in early spring. Alternatively, insecticidal dust can be puffed into the holes. Try a foaming aerosol, such as BioAdvanced Termite and Carpenter BeeKiller Plus from Amazon, to get right into the tunnels the bees create, or use an insecticidal liquid in a trigger spray. Some specialist insecticides designed for carpenter bees can also be sprayed around and into their holes. Spraying an insecticide onto the wood where carpenter bees will or have in the past gathered before they arrive will deter them. Also, be aware that insecticides are hazardous to children and pets so keep them in the house while you work, and put on protective clothing. Of course, you can kill carpenter bees with insecticide but that should only be done in desperate circumstances because, as we say, these are important pollinators. If you’re worried about the solution marking the wood, try it out in an inconspicuous area first. Alternatively, try a few drops of almond oil. ![]()
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