Wood Bees - article about Wood Bees

How to Deal with Wood Bees

The problem is usually a nuisance as it is not pleasant to have unsightly holes, usually around a half-inch wide. Usually wood bees prefer old, weathered wood but any home with a lot of wooden fixtures can become a target.

Favorite Woods

There are certain types of wood that wood bees love to use for their tunnels that eventually become nests. Most eastern species will be attracted to softwoods, as the wood is easier to tunnel through. Woods that can become the nesting grounds of wood bees are cedar, fir, redwood, cypress, and pine. Oak and eucalyptus are also the favorites of western wood bees.

Almost any structural timber can be the nesting ground of these bees. Fence posts and lawn furniture is not spared though more commonly porch ceilings, roof eaves, shingles and railings are a target. Wood that is painted is usually avoided, as are woods that have bark. Smooth unfinished woods make the best homes for these bees.

Hidden Problem

The tunnels of wood bees can be extensive and are hidden. On the surface all you will see are the entry holes that are a half-inch wide. Inside the wood however there are tunnels that can extend ten feet. If a colony of these bees continually uses the tunnels then the wood can be damaged very badly and require replacement.

Besides structural damage and the unsightliness of the holes the bees can also be a nuisance in other ways. The loud buzzing can be disturbing and the male bees often fly at people that they perceive are a threat. However the male bee has no stinger and can do no harm. Killing adult bees is not the answer as the larvae inside the tunnels will eventually hatch and continue the problem.

Non-Chemical Approach

The problem of these types of bees can be easily dealt with. There is no need to use chemicals to get rid of these bees. Simply plugging the holes to the tunnels is sufficient to get rid of the problem. You can use caulk and the bees will not tunnel out. Do this in the evening and wear protective clothing. You can also fill the tunnels with sealant. As a preventative measure you can paint wooden surfaces with oil-based paint to keep bees away.

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