Eastern Carpenter Bee

Natural Habitat

Found throughout North America in open areas, meadows, and gardens near wooden structures.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on nectar and pollen; larvae are fed a mixture of nectar and pollen (bee bread).

Behavior Patterns

Solitary but social bees that bore perfectly circular holes into wood for nesting. Males are territorial and may hover near humans but cannot sting; females can sting but rarely do unless provoked.

Risks & Benefits

Highly beneficial as pollinators for a variety of flowers and crops. Potential nuisance or minor risk to structures due to nest boring in untreated softwoods.

Identified on: 6/26/2026