by 
The Curious Bag
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Carpenter bees (Xylocopa virginica), also known as wood bees, are large bees that are often mistaken for bumblebees. Although carpenter bees can damage wood and can be annoying and frightening, they also play an important role in the pollination of flowers.
Appearance
Carpenter bees are black and yellow, with a blue-black abdomen, and measure approximately 3/4 of an inch to 1 inch long.
Habitat
Carpenter bees live in forests, parks, meadows and buildings.
Benefits
The main benefit of carpenter bees is pollination. Carpenter bees are important in pollinating both wildflowers and agricultural crops. For example, carpenter bees frequently pollinate eggplants and tomatoes.
Fun Fact
Carpenter bees employ a strategy of pollen gathering known as "buzz pollination," which involves sonicating the dry pollen grains to remove them from the flower.
Damage
Carpenter bees do not eat wood; rather, they bore tunnels in which they find shelter and raise their young. However, this can still cause considerable structural damage.
Prevention
Because carpenter bees don't eat wood, it can be difficult to eradicate them with pesticides. Painting and varnishing wood may protect it from carpenter bees. If you have carpenter bees, it is safest to contract with a licensed pest control company.
Source:
Master Beekeeper: Carpenter Bees
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