These termites are larger
(up to 1/2 inch long) than the Subterranean termite. Drywood termite
damage is usually confined to the infested furniture though movement of
the colony into the structure is possible. Structural damage to the
point of weakness is uncommon though furniture may be completely ruined
by the feeding action of the termites.
As the name implies, drywood termites establish in dry, sound wood that
may have as little as 3 percent moisture content. They are not dependent
upon a constant moisture supply as are the subterranean termites.
One of the common symptoms of drywood termite attack is the accumulation
of tiny, straw-colored fecal pellets inside or beneath infested
furniture. These pellets sift from small holes in the surface of
infested wood or are pushed out through small round openings maintained
by the termites for this purpose. The hard fecal pellets have six
distinct, concave surfaces. Presence of pellets does not prove damaged
wood is currently infested, as pellets continue to sift from furniture
for many years after termites are controlled or die. However, large,
consistent accumulations of pellets are a convincing sign the termites
are still active.
