How do carpenter bees primarily damage wood?

Carpenter bees primarily damage wood by excavating lateral tunnels and making 1/2 inch holes. This behavior involves the female carpenter bee chewing through the wood to create a nesting site. She removes wood material to create these tunnels, which can lead to significant structural damage over time, especially in untreated or weathered wood. The tunnels can be extensive and may house eggs, larvae, and food supplies.

The size of the holes is notable as they often measure around 1/2 inch in diameter, which is a characteristic feature of carpenter bee damage. Unlike some other wood-damaging insects, carpenter bees do not consume the wood as a food source, which differentiates their damage pattern from that of wood-eating pests. This tunneling can weaken the integrity of wooden structures, making it important to address carpenter bee infestations promptly to prevent further damage.