What might indicate a drywood termite infestation to a homeowner?

Identifying a drywood termite infestation can sometimes be challenging, as these termites often live within the wood they consume. One of the key indicators of their presence is the appearance of drywood termite droppings, also known as fecal pellets. These droppings are small, granular, and usually resemble wood-colored or tan pellets. They are often found near areas where the termites are feeding, as the insects excrete them from their tunnels in the wood. When homeowners notice these droppings, it is a strong signal of a potential drywood termite infestation.

In contrast, visible mud tubes are more commonly associated with subterranean termites rather than drywood termites. Loud noises at night could be made by various pests but are not specifically indicative of drywood termites. Continuous wood shavings on the floor might suggest the presence of wood-destroying insects, but they are more characteristic of carpenter ants or other wood-boring insects instead of drywood termites. Therefore, recognizing the fecal pellets provides a more direct and reliable confirmation of a drywood termite infestation.