Signs of a Carpenter Bee Infestation

Carpenter bees are often mistaken for bumblebees, but their shiny, hairless abdomen sets them apart. The clearest sign of activity is a perfectly round, dime-sized hole bored into exposed wood, on deck railings, fascia boards, eaves, and sheds. Fine sawdust, known as frass, piled beneath these holes confirms active tunneling. Homeowners may also notice yellowish stains on siding near entry holes, caused by bee excrement, and hear a low buzzing coming from within the wood itself. Unpainted or weathered wood surfaces around Long Island and Westchester County homes are especially vulnerable.

Risks

While carpenter bees rarely sting, males can behave aggressively when defending territory, hovering close to people, though they lack the ability to sting. The real damage is structural: females tunnel several inches into wood to lay eggs, and returning bees often reuse and extend the same galleries year after year. Left unaddressed, repeated tunneling can weaken wood trim, railings, and support beams, and woodpeckers drawn to the larvae inside can cause additional damage by pecking open the wood.

Professional Treatment

Pestonix inspects exposed wood surfaces to identify active galleries and treats entry holes directly to eliminate bees and larvae inside the wood. Technicians then seal or recommend repair of affected areas to prevent reinfestation of the same tunnels. All treatments are applied with family-safe and pet-safe products, with scheduling available across NYC, Long Island, Westchester County, and surrounding areas.

Prevention

Paint or stain exposed wood surfaces, since carpenter bees strongly prefer bare or weathered wood over finished surfaces. Fill existing holes once treated to discourage reuse. Inspect eaves, railings, and fascia boards each spring when carpenter bee activity typically resumes. Consider substituting vulnerable trim with composite materials in high-activity areas.

When to Call Pestonix

Round holes with sawdust beneath them or hovering bees near your deck or eaves warrant a call before damage spreads further. Pestonix backs carpenter bee treatment with our 3-Month No-Pest Guarantee, with licensed technicians serving homeowners throughout NYC and Long Island.