Eastern Carpenter Bee

Xylocopa virginica, sometimes referred to as the eastern carpenter bee, is a species of bee that extends through the eastern United States and into Canada. It is sympatric with Xylocopa micans in much of southeastern United States. It nests in various types of wood and eats pollen and nectar. Scientific Name: Xylocopa virginica Range: Eastern & central United States Size: Body ~19–23 mm Status: Common ID Notes: Resembles a large bumble bee but with SHINY BLACK abdomen (vs. fuzzy in bumble bees). Yellow fuzzy thorax. Males have a yellow face. Behavior / Notes: Bores nest tunnels in untreated wood (decks, eaves). Males look intimidating but cannot sting; females sting only if handled. Important early-spring pollinator.