What Are Termite Droppings? Termite droppings, referred to as frass, are tiny oval pellets measuring about 1 millimeter in length. Comprised of digested cellulose and abundant in magnesium, these droppings can vary in color from black, brown, to grey, based on the type of wood the termites have consumed. Typically forming small mounds resembling salt, pepper, coffee grounds, or sand grains.
In this article, we will cover common indicators of a termite presence, such as termite droppings, and offer advice on how to handle a potential termite infestation promptly and effectively.
What Do Termite Droppings Look Like?
Drywood termite droppings, also known as fecal pellets, are a common sign of infestation. As drywood termites clean their nests, they push these pellets out through kick out holes in the wood. Look for small mounds of pellet-shaped droppings under these exit holes to identify a potential termite problem. Termites make very small holes in wood in order to get rid of the droppings so that their nests are free from poop.
One sign of drywood termites is tiny pellets, or frass, that termites discard as they eat wood Termite droppings, commonly referred to as frass, are a sure sign of a termite infestation in or around your home. These droppings are typically small, elongated pellets that resemble grains of rice or sawdust. You may find clumps of termite droppings near their kick-out holes, which are small round openings in wood or drywall where termites enter and exit their nest.
Deciphering Termite Droppings:
While not harmful themselves, termite droppings, also known as frass, are a crucial sign of an active termite infestation in your home. Let’s delve into identifying termite droppings and the physical characteristics of these destructive pests. Ant poop is larger in shape and size, while termite droppings are smaller in diameter. Carpenter ants also cause less wood damage than termites.
- Tiny Telltales: Incredibly small, termite droppings typically require magnification for individual detection. Each pellet measures roughly 1 millimeter (0.04 inches).
- Shape and Color: Look for oval-shaped droppings with rounded ends, often appearing hexagonal. Color varies based on the termite’s diet, ranging from light brown to black.
- Spotting the Signs: Termite droppings often accumulate in small piles, resembling salt, pepper, or coffee grounds.
Identifying Termite Invaders:
While termite droppings are a giveaway, encountering the insects themselves is less common. However, familiarizing yourself with their appearance can be helpful.
- Size: These winged insects range from ⅛ inch to 1 inch in length.
- Wings: Four nearly equal-sized wings with pale veins are a telltale sign.
- Color Variations: Termite colors can range from white, brown, to black, with specific variations depending on the species.
Common Termite Species:
- Subterranean Termites: Creamy white to dark brown/black, long, narrow oval shape, ⅛ inch long, widespread in the US, and the most destructive termite species.
- Drywood Termites: Creamy white to light brown, long, narrow oval shape, ⅜ to 1 inch long, primarily found in coastal regions.
- Formosan Termites: Creamy white to brown, long, narrow oval shape, ½ inch long, found in specific US states like Hawaii, North Carolina, and California.
As termites feed on wood or drywall, they create these kick-out holes to expel their waste materials, which can accumulate near the infestation site. If you spot termite droppings, it’s important to take immediate action to address the infestation and prevent further damage to your property. Learning how to identify termite droppings and other signs of a potential termite … termite droppings are what drywood termites produce. Termite droppings are more commonly known as termite “frass.” Visible termite frass is usually the result of termites infesting your home.
What To Do If You Spot Signs of a Termite Infestation
If you spot signs of a termite infestation in your home, it is important to take action immediately. DIY methods or store-bought pesticides are unlikely to effectively eliminate the infestation. The best course of action is to contact a pest control professional as soon as possible to assess the situation and determine the most effective treatment plan. Common types of termites in the eastern US include subterranean termites, drywood termites, formosan termites, and dampwood termites. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help to ensure the complete eradication of termites from your home.
MTB Pest Control Can Help.
If you suspect a termite infestation in your home, MTB Pest Control has over 50 years of experience in commercial and residential pest control to help. Our team will customize a termite control plan tailored to your home’s specific needs, using various treatment options such as liquid termiticides, foam and dusts, and termite repellents. We can also install in-ground bait stations to intercept termites before they reach your home’s structure. Contact us for a free termite inspection to regain control of your property.