Bug Identifier
Carpenter Bee
Community identification

Carpenter Bee

Xylocopa violacea

Order & Family
Hymenoptera: Apidae
Size
20 to 30 millimeters in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Gardens, parks, and wooded areas near suitable nesting sites such as dead wood or timber structures.

Diet & Feeding

Nectar and pollen collected from a wide variety of flowers; they are known for 'nectar robbing' by piercing the base of long flowers.

Behavior Patterns

Solitary bees that do not live in colonies; they are active during the day and hibernate during winter. Females excavate tunnels in wood to lay eggs in individual chambers.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits the ecosystem as a significant pollinator. Risks include minor structural damage to untreated wood from nesting tunnels; they are generally non-aggressive, though females can sting if handled.