Carpenter Bee Removal in Ottawa

Danger / Damage

Carpenter bees drill round holes into softer boards like cedar, pine, and fir to build tunnels. Over time, decks, railings, fascia, and trim can weaken, and those holes can let in moisture and attract woodpeckers, which can worsen the damage. Females can sting if handled or approached too closely. Most stings cause a welt and swelling, but allergic reactions are the more serious concern. Early Carpenter Bee removal is important to prevent further deterioration.

Active Months

Carpenter bees emerge in early spring and begin drilling or reopening nesting tunnels. Activity continues through summer, then slows in late summer and fall when new adults feed and move into tunnels to overwinter. If they have nested on your property before, they are likely to return to the same wood the following year.

Appearance

At a glance, carpenter bees look a lot like bumblebees, but there’s an easy giveaway. They are large, heavy-bodied bees with a fuzzy yellow or orange thorax. Males may have a pale face patch, while females tend to have a darker face. You may also notice round holes with light sawdust below where they are boring.