Best Bee Brothers Bee Blog

What does the word “incense” conjure up in your mind? If you’re imagining meditation retreats or religious ceremonies, you might be missing out on an effective insect repellent. The first incense coil – specifically designed to repel mosquitos – was developed in the early 1900s by two Japanese entrepreneurs, Eiichiro and Yuki Ueyama. While the shape of their product (see below) was different from traditional incense sticks, the overall makeup remained the same. Today’s standard mosquito coil. The active ingredient in the Ueyamas’ invention was pyrethrum paste, a substance derived from chrysanthemum flowers, used as an insecticide for centuries in...

Where Do Carpenter Bees Live in Winter? For those who are afflicted by carpenter bees, they seem to be a constant annoyance all spring and summer. But where do they go during the cold winter months? You may be surprised to learn that carpenter bees hibernate in their nests during the winter. Carpenter Bee Winter Hibernation Habits As spring begins, so does the life cycle of a carpenter bee. Young adult carpenter bees emerge from their hibernation ready to mate, and create a new nest all their own – this is the best time to hang your carpenter bee trap!...

Do you need carpenter bee trap bait?  A carpenter bee will approach our carpenter bee trap when they are looking for a new nest. This typically occurs in the spring. The unfinished softwood exterior and specifically sized entrance holes are appealing to a searching carpenter bee. Once the carpenter bee enters the trap, the angled entrance holes minimize the light in the central chamber. The opaque bottom of the trap then becomes the largest light source and the carpenter bee flies down. Now the carpenter bee is truly stuck! Carpenter bees cannot fly directly up nor can they walk up...

So, you think you may have a carpenter bee problem? Here are some simple facts to help you know if your unwanted guests are indeed carpenter bees. First: What Are Carpenter Bees? Although frequently mistaken for bumblebees, carpenter bees are very different from their relatives. The carpenter bee is one of many species of bees that belong to the Xylocopa genus. Carpenter bees get their name from their unique nesting habits. This destructive pest usually builds its nest out of natural, unfinished wood and can cause expensive damage to your property. Although all under one name, there are many types...

A warm summer night. An ice cold drink in your hand. A little fire out on the back patio. Just when you think all's right with the world...buzz, buzz, buzz, SLAP! Of all the world’s pests, mosquitoes have got to be some of the most aggravating. Luckily, if you know when they’re coming and how long they are staying, you can prepare for them just as you would with any other unwanted house guest. Most people know that mosquitoes prefer warm, wet areas. More specifically, the magical number is about 50 degrees Fahrenheit. When the weather begins to warm and...