Carpenter bees and wasps will commonly infest the same area of most any home. Log homes are ever more susceptible to these pests. The good news is that both can be controlled with the same products.

If you take some time to review our Wasp Control and Carpenter Bee Control articles, you'll see both detail using Drione Dust. Apply this to the siding, soffits and any place where you see either pest. It will not only kill those that are nesting but it will keep them away for extended periods of time. Based on where you mentioned you're seeing the activity, the use of a Dustick may be needed. Remember, log homes should be treated every spring and fall with the Drione to keep out all unwanted pests and a good dust applicator will last many years.

For extra protection, spray the siding with Cypermethrin. Both wasps and bees don't like this material and will avoid treated surfaces. Use a good Pump Sprayer for the treatment and you should only have to do this 1-2 in the spring and then again in the fall to keep matters under control.

You're probably seeing a male carpenter bee. Males hang around in the spring looking for females who are foraging for food and a good nest site. Male carpenter bees cannot sting so if it's one you're seeing, there isn't any real danger. You can tell a male carpenter bee because they will have a yellow face. Other differences are listed in our Carpenter Bee Control Article.

I suggest you do a thorough inspection around the property to see if you have any females nesting or attempting to make a nest. Females will drill holes in wood where they will lay eggs and live. These holes can do quite a bit of damage so be on the look out for any that might be happening to something of value. If you find some nests, treat as we explain in our carpenter bee article to keep the damage minimized.