Carpenter Bee

*Xylocopa virginica*

Content coming soon for this insect guide.

Insect Profile

Beneficial Rating

+3 Beneficial

Active Months

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

US Distribution

NortheastSoutheastMidwest

Habitat Preferences

gardensmeadowsforest edges

Taxonomic Group

Bee

Order

Hymenoptera

Family

Apidae

Lifecycle

Carpenter bees undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult). They typically have one generation per year. Adults emerge in the spring to mate. The female excavates a tunnel in wood, lays an egg, provisions it with pollen and nectar, and seals the cell. This process is repeated for several cells in a single tunnel. The larvae develop within their cells and emerge as adults in late summer, returning to the nest to overwinter.

Overwintering Strategy

Adults overwinter in their old nests.

Native Range

Eastern North America

Attracted By

softuntreated woodcedarpineredwoodcypressflowering plants

Repelled By

painted woodtreated woodcitrus oilalmond oil

Companion Planting

Planting a variety of flowering plants, especially those with open-faced or shallow flowers, will attract and support carpenter bees, which are beneficial pollinators.