Distribution

Eastern Australia, including north of New South Wales. 

Identification

16–18 mm in size. It has a bright shiny metallic blue-green colour that may sometimes appear purple or yellowy green depending on the direction of light. They produce a deep droning noise when they fly, which may seem threatening but carpenter bees are docile unless bothered. Males do not have a sting, females do. 

Behaviour

Carpenter bees are named after their habit of nesting in softwood, in which they cut entrance holes with their strong jaws. They have a preference for unpainted, weathered wood—painted and pressure-treated wood are less susceptible to attack. 

Importance

Amazing at pollinating many flowering plants on farms, gardens, and natural areas. 

Damage

May aggravate homeowners since they commonly nest in the edges of roofing, rafters, fascia boards, wooden shake rooks, decks, and outdoor wooden furniture