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Extension > Garden > Diagnose a problem > What insect is this? > Garden Pests > Flies, moths, wasps,and other insects with obvious wings - Under 1/4 inch long > Small carpenter bees

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Small carpenter bees

Ceratina spp.

Small carpenter bees

Steve Nanz

Description: 3/16 - 1/4 inch long. Bluish green to black iridescent with some hair on bodies.

Where/When: Nest in the pith of several plants such as rose, sumac, and elder. Usually tunnels into dead canes in order to rear larvae. Active from April through September.

Significance: Tunneling may take place in healthy canes, causing them to die.

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