Common types of bees
The most common types of bees in Albuquerque, NM include Africanized honey bees and carpenter bees.
When are bees most active?
What do bees look like?
- Africanized honey bees (AKA killer bees)
This hybrid species looks very similar to domestic honey bees except that their bodies are slightly smaller. They are brownish in color with indistinct black stripes. They are covered in fuzz and workers have barbed stingers. - Carpenter bees
Carpenter bees are large bees that look very similar to bumblebees. They have shiny abdomens and not much hair. Female carpenter bees do have stingers but they are not barbed. Male carpenter bees do not have stingers.
Where do bees nest?
Africanized honey bees are considered void nesters meaning colonies will nest in holes, eaves of buildings, and other cavities- natural or manmade.
Unlike honey bees, carpenter ants are solitary bees and do not live in colonies. Instead, carpenter bee pairs rear their young in tunnels they create in wood, preferring unpainted or weather wood and softer wood varieties. They often bore holes into eaves, rafters, fascia boards, siding, and decks.
Are bees dangerous?
Africanized honey bees are easily provoked, very aggressive, and more likely to sting than domestic honey bees. In fact, they’ve been known to chase down victims for more than a quarter of a mile. They also attack in greater numbers which can lead to more stings. Although their venom is less potent than the common honey bee, their stings can be dangerous if you’re allergic to them. If stung by Africanized honey bees and you have symptoms other than mild pain and localized swelling, you should seek medical treatment.
Although female carpenter bees are capable of stinging, they typically only do so if directly threatened or trapped. Like other bees, their venom can cause an allergic reaction.
Carpenter bees are also capable of causing both cosmetic and structural damage with their tunneling activities, especially since they infest the same places year after year. Their larvae also attract woodpeckers who will peck away at carpenter bee holes, causing more damage.
Why do I have a bee problem?
During certain times of the year, Africanized honey bees will swarm and may stop by your property to rest before they move on.
Africanized honey bees may also establish nests if they find attractive spots. Abandoned vehicles, old tires, empty containers, eaves, fences, water meters, and sheds are just a few prime killer bee nesting sites.
Carpenter bees are attracted to wood that has not been pressure treated or painted, or is weathered.
How do you get rid of bees?
At Greenway Pest Solutions, we provide professional bee control in Albuquerque that includes swarm and nest removal. Our knowledgeable and experienced pest control specialist will evaluate the situation and then using the appropriate tools and safety equipment, take care of the bees that are on your property. For more information about this service, please contact us today!
