What is the typical method to treat carpenter bee infestations?

The typical method for treating carpenter bee infestations involves drilling and injecting pesticide into the nest. This approach is effective because carpenter bees create nests by boring holes into wood, often in areas that are less visible. When a technician drills into the nest and applies pesticide, it directly targets the bees residing inside, ensuring that the treatment reaches its intended target.

This method minimizes the need for broad-spectrum insecticides that could affect non-target species or cause environmental harm. It also allows for controlled application, reducing the risk of pesticide exposure to plants, pets, and people in the vicinity. Drilling into the nest enables the technician to assess and treat the full extent of the infestation, which can be critical for ensuring complete control of the bee population.

While other methods, such as applying surface insecticides or setting traps, can be useful in certain scenarios, they are generally less effective for addressing existing nests since they do not directly target the bees inside their holes. Sealing openings can help prevent future infestations, but if there is an active nest, it's crucial to eliminate the existing bees first through direct treatment.