Carpenter bees are a frequent concern for homeowners in Ann Arbor, MI, particularly during the warmer months. These large, solitary bees are known for their wood-boring habits, which can lead to structural damage if left unchecked. While they play an important role in pollination, carpenter bees can become problematic when they choose homes, decks, or fences as their nesting sites.

What Are Carpenter Bees?

Carpenter bees resemble bumblebees but have a distinct appearance. They have smooth, shiny abdomens rather than the hairy bodies of bumblebees. These bees bore into wood to create tunnels where they lay their eggs. Over time, these tunnels can weaken wooden structures, especially if multiple bees return to the same area each year.

Why Are Carpenter Bees a Problem in Ann Arbor?

Ann Arbor’s mix of suburban homes and wooded areas makes it an ideal environment for carpenter bees. Homes with exposed wood, such as decks, fences, or siding, are particularly vulnerable. The humid summers and rainy seasons can also soften untreated wood, making it easier for carpenter bees to burrow.

Key reasons carpenter bees thrive in Ann Arbor include:

• Abundance of Wooden Structures: Many homes in the area feature decks, pergolas, and untreated fences, which are prime targets.
• Seasonal Behavior: Carpenter bees become active in the spring and summer, coinciding with Ann Arbor’s warmer months.
• Limited Natural Predators: Few predators naturally control carpenter bee populations in residential areas.

Signs of a Carpenter Bee Problem

If you notice perfectly round holes in wood around your home, carpenter bees may be the culprit. Other signs include:

• Sawdust (Frass): Piles of sawdust below the entry holes where the bees have burrowed.
• Bee Activity: Large, slow-moving bees hovering around wooden surfaces.
• Buzzing Sounds: Audible buzzing near wooden structures.
• Wood Damage: Over time, the tunnels created by carpenter bees can compromise the structural integrity of wood.

Preventing Carpenter Bees

• Treat and Seal Wood: Use paint or varnish to protect wooden surfaces, as carpenter bees prefer untreated wood.
• Replace Damaged Wood: Remove and replace wood that has already been infested.
• Install Screens: Cover entry points with wire mesh to prevent bees from accessing vulnerable areas.
• Use Bee Deterrents: Hang carpenter bee traps near areas of activity or apply citrus-based sprays, which carpenter bees dislike.

When to Call a Professional

Carpenter bees may seem manageable at first, but their damage can escalate over time. Professional pest control services can:

• Identify the extent of the infestation.
• Safely remove bees and seal tunnels to prevent re-entry.
• Offer preventive treatments to protect your home.

For homeowners in Ann Arbor, professional help is often the most effective way to address carpenter bee problems. Reach out to Honorable Pest Control today to get help addressing your carpenter bee problem.