Dealing with carpenter bees in Long Island can be quite a hassle if you don't know how to handle these pests properly. They can cause a great deal of property damage due to their habit of boring holes into wood. With summer just around the corner, these insects will be at their most active before long. Parkway Pest Services is here to help you understand these insects and how to deal with them. We offer the best pest control in Long Island. First, let's talk about how to identify a carpenter bee.
How To Identify A Carpenter Bee
Before you can control carpenter bees in Long Island, you have to be able to identify them. Carpenter bees get their name because they bore holes into wood to build their nests. They are sometimes confused for bumble bees but lack yellow markings or fur on their abdomens. Carpenter bees are usually between a quarter of an inch and an inch long. They are often primarily yellow or black, with shiny, smooth abdomens. Their bodies are generally a robust oval shape. They have six legs and antennae, like other bees. Different types of carpenter bees will vary slightly in color and physical appearance. The most obvious sign of a carpenter bee problem on your property is seeing round, smooth holes bored into wood. Carpenter bees seem to prefer bare wood. If you see lots of bees hovering around your home, you may have an infestation on your hands.
The Problems A Carpenter Bee Infestation Can Create
Now that you know how to identify a carpenter bee and recognize the signs of a carpenter bee infestation on your Long Island property, let's discuss some of the issues carpenter bees can cause. The first and most dangerous consequence of having carpenter bees on your property is the potential damage to your home. They don't consume wood like termites, but the holes they bore can cause significant structural damage if they aren't dealt with quickly. Carpenter bees are solitary creatures, unlike most other kinds of bees, so they will spread out rather than all grouping up in one larger, more noticeable area. Woodpeckers can also be attracted to the larvae of carpenter bees, making any structural problems they have caused even worse.
The Best Thing To Do About Carpenter Bees On Your Property
You want to prevent carpenter bees from getting a foothold on your property before they can destroy its wooden components. Here are a few simple steps that you can follow:
- Paint or stain any exposed wood that carpenter bees might target.
- Keep your window and door screens in good repair.
- Seal up cracks or gaps in the exterior of your home.
- Inspect the outside of your house regularly for signs of an infestation.
These tips should help you keep carpenter bees away, but these steps won't be enough if you want to eliminate a carpenter bee problem near your home for good. You'll need some help from trained professionals.
How To Prevent Carpenter Bees From Coming Back
To eliminate carpenter bees for good in Long Island, contact Parkway Pest Services. We are a family owned and operated pest control company with years of experience in the industry. Our technicians are highly trained and fully equipped with everything they need to provide you with top-notch service. We pride ourselves on delivering absolute customer satisfaction every time. Call Parkway Pest Services today to get started and to learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services in Long Island.