Good point. The source needs to be addressed. If they find suitable wood, they’ll just keep coming back.
What other methods besides bug zappers have you found effective against carpenter bees?
Paint or varnish all exposed wood. Carpenter bees prefer untreated wood, and this can deter them from drilling their nests.
Seconded! A good coat of paint really helps. Also, check for any wooden structures regularly for new holes.
Don’t forget sealing cracks and gaps in wood to prevent bees from finding new nest sites.
I’ve tried using a stiff brush to drive them away from nesting areas, but it’s a lot of work.
Yeah, there’s no easy fix but filling holes ASAP can reduce their overall presence.
And don’t forget, once established, professional pest control can be worth the investment for lasting results.
Any DIY solutions for getting rid of carpenter bees?
The glass jar traps are a favorite of mine. They’re simple to make and pretty effective.
I’ve made some myself, and combining them with citrus oil repellent seems to be a good combo.
Some people swear by essential oils. Peppermint and tea tree oil supposedly drive them away.
Consistency is key with those. Regular applications are necessary to see results.
Safer for pets and children too. But they might not be as potent as chemical options.
From what I’ve seen, zappers just don’t cut it for carpenter bees, they’re into wood, not light. Best to seal up the entrance holes instead.
I once zapper-whacked one mid-flight—and yeah, it stunned it temporarily. But it buzzed off a few seconds later. So, not the most effective fix.
Carpenter bee traps mimic their natural nesting spots and do a better job catching them without the shock. Way more reliable.
Heard of a control kit that includes a zapper racket tuned for carpenter bees. But some users say traps and sealing are still their go-to.
@BeeZapperDoubt Totally agree, most zappers are designed for nocturnal bugs, not daytime painter bees. Just shifts the problem, doesn’t solve it.