Bumblebees VS Carpenter Bees in The Villages, FL; Stinging Insect Identification, Lifecycle, Nests, Control & More

Most people see a larger bee buzzing around and automatically assume it is a bumblebee. However more often than not, what they are actually seeing is a carpenter bee. Both the carpenter bee and the bumblebee look very similar at first glance. Despite the similarity, there are a few traits and physical markings that help tell the two species of bees apart. Pest 911 will tell you about these two similar bees and how you can control them around your home.

Identification of Bumblebees VS Carpenter Bees

Both bumblebees and carpenter bees are about the same size. They each can grow up to one inch in length and both are black and yellow. However, there are some slight visual distinctions that help separate them. Carpenter bees found on the east cost all share one distinct trait: they are hairless and shiny on their abdomen. On the other hand, bumblebees have hair covering their entire body. Bumblebees also have another marker that helps tell the two apart. Bumblebees have a single yellow band on their abdomen where as the carpenter bee can either be completely black or even have multiple yellow stripes.

Where Do Bumblebees Nest?

Another way to help tell the two species apart is their nesting sites. Bumblebees share the same social behaviors as most bees. Every spring a young queen will lay her eggs and raise her first generation of workers. This first generation of worker bees they will begin expanding their nest and pollinating and feeding the larva. However, bumblebees prefer to build their nest or hives underground or on solid objects such as old equipment that has been standing around for some time. They will also use sheds and buildings. They’ll look for a quick place with little activity from other threats. Like other bees, the bumblebee will only attack if their nest is under attack. A single bumblebee nest can last for years. In addition, you will see more then just one or two bees flying around the hive. Bumble bee workers are very active, especially during the day. You will see many rather large bees flying around pollinating in flowering trees and bushes.

Carpenter Bee Nesting Sites

Carpenter bees nest much differently. Carpenter bees are not social. In fact, they will nest only with their mates. Carpenter bees received their name because of their desire to bore into wood and create galleries or chambers where the female can lay her eggs and create pollen balls for her young to feed on. The male carpenter bee assists in boring and creating the galleries although his primary focus is to aggressively guard the nest. After the eggs have been laid and the nest is completed both the parents will leave the nest. The life of the Carpenter bee is pretty short. Once the mated pair has prepared the nest for their young and left food for their development, typically by late summer, the carpenter bee’s life is coming to an end.

Bee Control & Removal

Both species of bee pose their own set of problems. Bumblebees, given their size, will defend their nest in numbers, which for those who’ve discovered a well developed nest in their backyard, could pose a health risk. Most especially for those who may be allergic. Carpenter bees like softer wood. Often they will bore into homes and other wooden structures causing expensive damages. If you have large bees or other stinging insects buzzing around your home, contact Pest 911 and we can help you be pest free.