Wood bees, often called carpenter bees, are frequently misunderstood creatures. While they share a superficial resemblance with bumblebees, their dietary habits are vastly different. Understanding what wood bees eat is crucial for identifying them and managing their presence around wooden structures. Unlike their honey-making cousins, these bees do not survive on nectar and pollen alone.
Primary Diet of Wood Bees
Adult wood bees primarily feed on nectar and pollen, just like other bee species. This sugary and protein-rich diet provides the energy needed for flight and daily activities. You will often see them hovering around vibrant flowers, extracting the sweet liquid they require to survive. This feeding behavior makes them important, albeit solitary, pollinators in the ecosystem.
Preferred Flowers and Plants
While they are not picky eaters, wood bees show a distinct preference for open-faced flowers. Plants like daisies, zinnias, and honeysuckle are common feeding grounds. They are also attracted to fruit trees, making them a frequent sight in orchards during bloom season. This preference for accessible blooms distinguishes them from bees that forage in deeper flowers.
The Misconception About Wood
A widespread myth is that wood bees consume wood as part of their diet. This is biologically inaccurate; they do not derive any nutritional value from the timber they drill into. Their biological makeup prevents them from digesting cellulose. Instead, wood serves a completely different, functional purpose in their lifecycle.
The True Purpose of Chewing Wood
The reason wood bees are called "wood bees" is due to their unique nesting behavior. Female bees use their powerful mandibles to chew through untreated wood, creating perfectly round tunnels. This activity is not for consumption but for excavation. They are carving out galleries where they will lay their eggs and protect the next generation.
Preferred Wood Types
Not all wood is equally appealing to these insects. They tend to target softer, untreated woods that are easier to manipulate. Weathered or unpainted pine, cedar, and fir are prime targets. The condition of the wood is more important than the species, as they seek out material that requires less energy to excavate.
Lifecycle and Feeding Habits
The lifecycle of a wood bee dictates its eating patterns. During the spring and summer, adults focus on feeding and reproduction. They store nectar in their crops to create a honey-like substance for their larvae. Once the eggs hatch, the larvae consume this stored provisions until they are ready to pupate and emerge as adults.
Managing Wood Bees Around Your Home
If you notice these bees drilling holes on your property, it is usually a sign of untreated wood. Painting or staining the wood surface is the most effective deterrent, as they avoid treated materials. Filling the holes with steel wool and sealing them with caulk can also prevent future generations from returning to the same spot.
