7K views · 2.7K reactions | Carpenter bees are the largest bees native to North America. You can spot them by looking for their shiny, black abdomens. This carpenter bee is feasting on the beautiful yellow and pink flowers of the mullein (Verbascum) in bloom in the Terrace Gardens now. Carpenter bees are solitary bees that, as the name suggests, build their nests in wood using their strong jaws. | U.S. Botanic Garden | Facebook