Many business owners may think that getting rid of Masonry bees is simply a matter of shooing the black-and-yellow fuzzy insects away; but treatment is far from a simple matter.
Unlike most bees that live in colonies, masonry bees are solitary insects, with a single bee making its own hole in the masonry. These bees dig their own holes in the mortar in contrast with other bees that take up residence in existing holes.
Masonry bees usually make their nests in badly-maintained and old mortar, present between bricks and are a common problem in these types of structures during the spring and summer months.
The Masonry bee excavate their tunnels, in the soft mortar, coat the holes with a smooth material and then fill them with bee bread (a mixture of pollen and nectar) before laying their eggs.
Keep in mind that there are several different species of masonry bees in the UK but most cause damage to structures. In a small number of clients, who call the professionals to get rid of their Masonry bees, the damage is indeed substantial. So much so that structural repair is necessary.
Fortunately, most cases of Masonry bee infestation result in only slight damage to the structure, but this is not a reason to be complacent; as a minor infestation can soon become a major headache.
In commercial structures it is a legal requirement to eliminate Masonry bees. This is partly due to the damage that can be caused by an infestation.
Trained pest control technicians shall avoid the use of insecticide unless deemed necessary, there is substantial damage or considerable distress among the property owners.
After treatment the pest control technician will often come up with a schedule of inspections to locate any further infestations, as early as possible.
