Scott McCombe is the CEO of Summit Environmental Solutions (SES), a family-owned local pest solutions, animal control, and home insulation company based in Northern Virginia. Thus, this is the main difference between male and female carpenter bees. By using our site, you agree to our. Unlike the bumble bee carpenter bees are considered a solitary bee. © 2004-2020 P&M Solutions, LLC DBA DoMyOwn, Pre Emergent Herbicides (Weed Preventers), Professional Safety Kit with Comfo Respirator, See More Carpenter bees (Xylocpa spp.) Every female tunnel into the wood to create its nest. The male carpenter bees hover around the house, searching for mates and good paces to create their nests. ", See More The female bee dies not long after laying larvae in the separate chambers of the soft-wood tunnel. This article was co-authored by Scott McCombe. They tend to prefer soft wood over hardwood, mostly in wood planks, and weathered wood. Male carpenter bees do not (cannot) sting. Pest Control Specialist. Though seldom as destructive as termites, carpenter bees can cause cosmetic and structural damage. We have a paper wasp nest under eves over our deck. This species chews wood to make their nests. Also check to see if the insect has a stinger. Carpenter bees do not make honey. Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 82,080 times. Check for a stinger. The male bees die after mating with the female. The females are actually the only ones with stingers. Physical features of carpenter bees may vary slightly, as there are seven different species of carpenter bees across the U.S. and hundreds worldwide. These insects create exact, even holes that are ½ inch in size. Males have light yellow (almost white) patch on their faces. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/ed\/Identify-Carpenter-Bees-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Identify-Carpenter-Bees-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ed\/Identify-Carpenter-Bees-Step-1-Version-2.jpg\/aid1608960-v4-728px-Identify-Carpenter-Bees-Step-1-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"