To get rid of carpenter bees without killing them, consider these non-lethal, bee-friendly methods:

• Use natural repellents like citrus spray or almond oil: Carpenter bees dislike citrus scents and almond oil. You can make a citrus spray by boiling citrus fruit rinds in water or adding citrus oil to water, then spraying it around carpenter bee holes and wood surfaces. Almond oil mixed with water can also be sprayed or applied directly to nest openings to encourage bees to leave

• Vacuum the bees out of their nests: If nests are new and shallow, a strong vacuum with a small attachment can remove adult carpenter bees without harming them. After vacuuming, seal the holes to prevent re-entry

• Play loud music near the nests: Carpenter bees are sensitive to sound vibrations, so playing loud music near active nests can cause them to temporarily leave, giving you a chance to repair or treat the area without killing the bees

• Use carpenter bee traps: These traps lure bees in and prevent escape, allowing you to capture and relocate them instead of killing. Traps can be purchased or homemade with wooden boxes and light-attracting bottles

• Seal and maintain wood surfaces: Regularly painting or varnishing wood and filling old holes with steel wool and caulk can discourage bees from nesting without harming them

These approaches focus on deterring or removing carpenter bees humanely rather than killing them. Avoid insecticides and dusts if you want to preserve the bees, as those are lethal methods

. Instead, rely on natural repellents, physical removal, and habitat modification to manage carpenter bees safely and effectively.