# Carpenter Bee (*Xylocopa virginica*)

> The eastern carpenter bee (Xylocopa virginica) drills nest tunnels in soft wood while pollinating spring flowers across eastern North America. Adults reach 2.5 cm and are Least Concern.

- **Category:** Insect
- **Conservation status (IUCN):** Least Concern
- **Range:** Eastern North America woodlands and gardens.
- **Canonical page:** https://globalanimalguide.org/animals/carpenter-bee/
- **Last reviewed:** 2026-07-16

## Scientific classification

- **Kingdom:** Animalia
- **Phylum:** Arthropoda
- **Class:** Insecta
- **Order:** Hymenoptera
- **Family:** Apidae
- **Genus:** Xylocopa

## Facts at a glance

| Attribute | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Scientific name | Xylocopa virginica |
| Diet | Herbivore (nectar and pollen) |
| Habitat | Woodland edges and gardens |
| Lifespan | 1–3 years |
| Weight | 0.001–0.002 kg |
| Top speed | up to 25 km/h |
| Conservation status | Least Concern (IUCN) |

## Wood-driller pollinator

Large bees resemble bumblebees but have shiny hairless abdomens. Females excavate round tunnels in dead wood; males patrol flowers without stinging ability.

## Nectar robber and true pollinator

Long tongues reach deep flowers; some visits bypass pollen by piercing petals. Nonetheless they pollinate passionflowers, wisteria, and many garden blooms.

## Eastern US woodlands and porches

Forests, gardens, and structural timbers from Texas to New York. Unpainted softwood fascia and deck rails often host nest galleries.

## Pest label, pollinator reality

Least Concern and widespread. Structural damage is usually cosmetic; coexistence tips include hardwood trim and bee hotels away from siding.

## Frequently asked questions

### Do carpenter bees eat wood?

Females excavate tunnels for nests but do not eat wood — they feed on nectar and pollen.

### Can carpenter bees sting?

Females can sting if handled; males are aggressive but lack stingers.

### How do carpenter bees differ from bumblebees?

Carpenter bees have shiny, mostly hairless abdomens; bumblebees are fuzzy all over.

### Why do carpenter bees hover at people?

Males patrol territories and may fly at intruders without ability to sting.

### Are carpenter bees good pollinators?

Yes — despite occasional nectar robbing, they pollinate many spring and summer flowers.

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Source: Global Animal Guide (https://globalanimalguide.org/animals/carpenter-bee/). Licensed CC BY-NC 4.0 — free for non-commercial reuse with attribution.