Honeybees have some kinfolks. There are several species, but let’s save time by referring to them simply by the Wild Bees. Adult colors will vary, but blacks, orange and yellow are the most common. Some are metallic green or blue.

Wild bees nest in a variety of locations. By the way, not all bees live in colonies; many live alone. Bumble Bees nest in the ground and their life-style is simple; they won’t bother you if you don’t bother them.

CARPENTER BEES are common in Florida and look very much like bumble bees, but they nest differently. Carpenter bee activity is commonly found around wooden fences, patio covers, wood shingles, roof eaves, porch ceilings, door and windowsills. In establishing a nesting site, the female bores into wood at right angel to the surface. The characteristic entrance tunnel is clean-cut, ½ to 1 inch deep, and  is approximately ½ inch wide about the size of a dime. Approach the carpenter bee next and you might find a bee “helicopter” hovering over your head. This is the male doing his duty. Although he is frightening because of his loud buzzing and large size, the male does not sting. The female will sting only if handled, so don’t mess with her. Damage to structures is usually slight and amounts to cosmetic defacement, but try to sell that line to your wife when she finds that 45-caliber “bullet-hole” out by the back door.