Do carpenter bees consume wood, and what is the impact?

Carpenter bees are known for their specific behavior of boring into wood, but they do not consume the wood as a food source. Instead, they excavate tunnels in wood to create nesting sites. This activity can lead to structural damage, especially if they infest wood that is susceptible, like untreated softwoods. Over time, as these bees continue to tunnel and create their nests, the structural integrity of the wood can be compromised, leading to significant damage.

Understanding the nature of carpenter bees is crucial; while they don't eat the wood, their boring behavior does pose risks to structures. Other options suggesting minor damage or focusing on treated wood imply a misunderstanding of the bee's relationship with wood. Carpenter bees target various untreated woods, making proper identification and management essential for maintaining structural integrity.