Which type of wood do carpenter bees typically attack?

Carpenter bees primarily target softwoods such as cedar and pine because they prefer to excavate tunnels in softer, less dense wood. The behavior of these bees is driven by their need to create nesting sites where they can lay eggs and raise their young. Softwoods offer the right consistency for their nesting habits, as they can easily bore into it with their strong mandibles.

While hardwoods like oak and maple are more challenging for the bees due to their density, pressure-treated woods are designed to resist decay and insect damage, making them less appealing for nesting. Additionally, painted wood is generally avoided since the surface treatment can deter the bees from boring into it. Overall, carpenter bees have a clear preference for softwoods, which align with their natural nesting behavior.