As pollinators, bees have an important role to play in flower and produce gardens as well as orchards and crop fields. This is why most reputable pest management companies do their utmost to relocate beneficial species such as the honey bee and the bumblebee. On the other hand, the carpenter bee and her nests usually are destroyed because of the potential for property damage.
WHAT DO BEES LOOK LIKE?
All species of bees are winged insects with antenna and six legs. The honey bee is the smallest of the local species, with adults unlikely to reach one-half-inch in length. Their slim bodies are covered in yellow-and-brown stripes.
The rounder, larger bumble bee can grow to nearly one inch long. Thick hair covers them, and they are adorned with a pattern of alternating yellow and black or brown stripes.
Carpenter bees are generally the same length as bumble bees, but they tend to have a slenderer profile. They are less hairy as well, and instead of being striped, they may be green, purple, black or blue with yellow markings on their heads.
WHAT DO BEES EAT?
Bee species forage throughout the day to gather nectar and pollen from blooming plants and trees. Worker bees may consume some food while out foraging, but they also take nectar and pollen back to the colony to feed other colony members. In fact, the nectar may be used to make honey, which also is consumed by bees.
Nectar, pollen and honey all are sugary foods. Accordingly, many human and pet foods also appeal to bee species. Jam, jelly, syrup, candy, baked goods, sauces, salad dressing, condiments, soda and juice all may be targeted by bees.
WHERE DO BEES LIVE?
The habitat requirements for bees vary depending upon their species. Honey bee nests are most frequently suspended from high places like lamp posts or the eaves of a building. Tall trees also may serve as a nest site. Alternatively, honey bee colonies do sometimes build nests in places like wall voids, increasing the odds that they may make their way into residences and buildings.
Social bumble bees live in large colonies that frequently are located underground or at the ground's surface. Dark, secluded areas are preferred, and the bumble bees may build their nest beneath a large stone or a fallen tree. An abandoned animal burrow also may provide the perfect, ready-made nest.
Carpenter bees burrow into wood to create a nest. Unlike honey bees and bumble bees, this species does not live in a colony. They are solitary, creating a wooden burrow in which they overwinter. In the spring, they emerge to mate, and the female will create a new brood tunnel in wooden structures like fences, decks, woodpiles, outdoor furniture, siding, eaves, shutters and roofs.
DAMAGE CAUSED BY BEES
With the exception of carpenter bees, most bee species are not overtly destructive. Nonetheless, this does not mean that bees are not responsible for causing damage.
For instance, consider the problems that may occur when a honey bee colony establishes a nest in a wall void. These nests can become incredibly massive and heavy when they are successful. This puts an unnecessary strain on the structural elements of the wall, which may require extensive repairs to cure. Additionally, the wax and honey that are left behind when the nest is abandoned will rot, and this leads to problems with mildew and mold.
If only one or two carpenter bees are infesting a property, then the damage that they cause may not be extensive. However, when several generations of carpenter bees nest in the same concentrated area, then the destruction can become widespread. Clearly, this is a concern, especially when numerous nests are located in exterior walls or support joists.
ARE BEES AGGRESSIVE?
Most of the bees that are commonly encountered around Philadelphia are not overtly aggressive. They tend to be focused on their daily activities as they gather nectar and pollen. However, if they are bothered by a person, then they are likely to sting in self-defense.
It is worth noting that bees do become far more aggressive and territorial when they are close to their nest. Determined to protect their home and the young inside, bees can become surprisingly aggressive. Pheromones that are emitted by attacking bees communicate an alarm signal to other colony members that may join in the attack. Since most bees are only capable of delivering one sting, having other colony members join the attack is a necessary defensive maneuver.
DO BEES CARRY DISEASE?
While bees are not known to transmit diseases to people, they still represent a significant health threat. Non-allergic people who receive a single sting are unlikely to suffer much beyond a bit of swelling, redness and itching for a few hours or a day or two.
People who become entangled with a nest and are stung multiple times may have a serious adverse reaction that requires a visit to the emergency room. These individuals may have widespread swelling, pain, itching and redness.
Some people have an allergy to stings that causes them to have a severe allergic reaction to even one sting. Low blood pressure, dizziness, difficulty breathing, general swelling, nausea, vomiting and other symptoms may accompany the usual pain, itching and burning. Medical intervention is essential for these people.
HOW TO DETECT BEES
When these signs are noticed, it may be time for bee control:
• Reports of several stings on the property • Bees seen buzzing around the eaves • People are being dive bombed when outdoors • Bees are observed emerging from a crack or opening in the building's exterior
HOW TO PREVENT BEES
It is possible to discourage bee activity by taking these steps:
• Repair any water leaks on the property • Please flowering plants and trees well away from buildings • Cover up or seal any holes or cracks in building exteriors • Keep garbage cans clean • Use trash cans with tight lids • Check building exteriors for signs of new nest construction
HOW TO TREAT FOR BEES
Newtown Termite & Pest Control understands how vital bumble bees and honey bees are to the local ecosystem. As such, we recommend contacting a local bee keeper for the safe removal of bumble bees and honey bees from area homes and businesses.
At the same time, we also utilize a multi-faceted approach for treating problematic species. Our methodology involves making use of the most appropriate detection, prevention, and treatment methods available. By combining these measures, we ensure that your home or business remains free of wasps, hornets, and carpenter bees.
