When you think of bees, the first thing that comes to mind may be the benign bumble bee, revered for its role as an important plant pollinator and honey producer. But this relatively harmless variety isn’t the only type of bee out there. Carpenter bees pose a threat to homeowners and cause extensive property damage throughout Missouri.

The local team of pest control experts at Collins Exterminating in Bolivar, Missouri, provides the following overview to help you identify when these troublesome pests have entered your home.

What Is a Carpenter Bee?  

These large, solitary bees are best distinguished by their size and are usually between a half-inch to one inch in length. Their bodies are mostly a shiny black color, with just the top section covered in fine yellow hairs. The faces of male carpenter bees are often decorated with yellow swatches as well.

Just like regular bees, carpenter bees feed on the nectar and pollen found in plants. However, unlike their bumblebee cousins, carpenter bees don’t live in hives or large social groups. Instead, they are mostly solitary insects and prefer to make individual nests by burrowing into wood. During the winter, these bees take refuge within their wooden burrows and remain dormant until spring, when they begin to emerge between April and June.

Why Call Pest Control to Deal With Carpenter Bees?

When you notice these giant bees buzzing around your home, it’s time to call an exterminator to reign in your carpenter bee problem. Left unchecked, carpenter bees will excavate tunnels and nests through wooden objects in and around your home. Doors, windowsills, fences, roof overhangs, and outdoor decks are particularly vulnerable. The tunnels created by the bees undermine both the appearance and structural integrity of the wooden features of the house, leading to costly repairs.

If you find yourself dealing with carpenter bees, contact Collins Exterminating for reliable pest control service. Using proven techniques and tools, their team of certified technicians offers effective termite and bed bug control, as well as treatments for ants, spiders, and cockroaches. Call (417) 326-2124 for a free estimate, or visit them online to learn more.