Carpenter Bee
Introduction
Carpenter bees get their common name from their habit of boring into
wood to make galleries for the rearing of young. These are worldwide
in distribution with seven species occurring in the United States.
Recognition
Adult body length is about 1/2-1 inch long; robust in form, resembling bumble
bees, but with top surface of abdomen largely bare and shining. Hind
tibiae with apical spurs. Front wing second submarginal cell triangular;
hind wing with a small jugal lobe.
Habits
Females of the carpenter bee will nest in a wide range of woods, but
prefer weathered and unpainted wood. Valley carpenter bees prefer
partially decayed live oak, deciduous oak, eucalyptus, and other
hardwoods. The California carpenter bee nests in incense cedar and
redwood. The Mountain carpenter bee is recorded as nesting in
structural timbers.
Male carpenter bees tend to be territorial and often become aggressive
when humans approach, sometimes hovering a short distance in front of
the face, or buzzing one's head. Because males have no stinger, these
actions are merely show. However, the female does have a potent sting,
which is rarely used.
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