Powderpost Beetles in North Jersey
You’ve heard about termites, but what about powderpost beetles? These small and narrow insects are lesser known, but they can cause nearly as much damage to wooden structures as the infamous termite. They require dried hardwood for nesting and breeding. They are most attracted to oak, ash, walnut, and hickory trees – making them a common problem in North Jersey. Over time, powderpost beetles can hollow out important wooden structures and are responsible for millions of dollars in damages annually. These beetles get their name from the sawdust they produce, which is often the first indication of an infestation.
Powderpost Beetle Habitat
Powderpost beetles primarily infest dry, seasoned wood and tend to avoid softwoods or varnished woods. For that reason, you’re most likely to find them in your flooring, furniture, or hardwood trim. Female powderpost beetles usually lay around 50 eggs in the wood pores, and which the larvae will feed upon until fully developed – which can take between one and five years. In the springtime, adult beetles will emerge through pencil-sized “shot” holes, which are another key indicator of an infestation. Most adult beetles only live for about a year after emerging.
Powderpost Beetle Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Powderpost beetles aren’t harmful to human health, but they are still not a pest you want to find in your home or building. By chewing up treated woods, they can cause thousands of dollars in damages to your property over the course of just a few years. Since powderpost beetles are strong flyers, infestations usually begin near windowsills or attics. In some cases, your infestation may begin by accidentally carrying contaminated wood into your property. Regardless of how the beetles got there, though, it’s important to get them out quickly.
Notice signs of powderpost beetles in your space? Give Eastern Pest Services a call! We can help you eliminate these pests before they can cause more damage to your belongings or ruin the structural integrity of your home. Our licensed exterminators will make the process quick and simple, and we go the extra mile to create custom treatment plans that prevent the infestation from returning. If you want to learn more or get started, contact our beetle control professionals today!
