Bug Identifier
Eastern Carpenter Bee
Community identification

Eastern Carpenter Bee

Xylocopa virginica

Order & Family
Hymenoptera: Apidae
Size
19–25 mm (0.75–1 inch)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Gardens, meadows, and residential areas near dead wood or structural timber

Diet & Feeding

Nectar and pollen from a wide variety of flowers; they are known for 'robbery' by piercing the base of flowers to reach nectar

Behavior Patterns

Solitary bees that excavate tunnels in wood to create nests; males are often territorial and hover near nest entrances but cannot sting

Risks & Benefits

Benefits as important pollinators for many plants; risks include minor structural damage to wooden buildings and a low-risk sting from females if handled