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Serving Wisconsin & Minnesota Call for inquiries about service 1-800-236-8735 |
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PEST LIBRARY
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Wood-Destroying Insects |
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• Carpenter Ants Carpenter Ants are wood destroying members of the ant family, and are among the largest ants found in homes and other structures. The black carpenter ant (Camponotus pennsylvanicus) is the common species found in northern states, including Wisconsin & Minnesota. Unlike termites, Carpenter ants do not actually eat wood. They chew into wood and nest in the hollowed-out channels. Carpenter ants do bite, and they inject formic acid which makes their bites quite painful. Tip: An infestation of Carpenter ants inside is usually an indication of an underlying problem, such as a water leak or moisture problem. Seeing them in winter is a definate indication of a nest indoors. |
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• Termites Termites are social insects that live in colonies. They are tiny wingless creatures, chalky white, with a head that's slightly darker in color. Termites are of great concern because of their dietary habits and subsequent damage to wood in structures. Eastern subterannean termites are the most common species encountered in northern states, and the only ones found in Wisconsin & Minnesota. Tip: Termite problems can go unnoticed for years so annual inspections are recommended. For new construction in areas known for termite activity, a termite pre-treatment is highly recommended. |
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• Powder Post Beetles Powder Post Beetles are small, reddish-brown insects that attack wood. Their feeding activity, particularly the larvae, essentially reduces the infested wood to "powder" over time. There are several species but true powderpost beetles (genus Lyctus) attack only hardwood, including lumber, timbers and manufactured products. Other species may attack hard or softwood, or both. Tell-Tale Signs: You won't often see the actual beetles but tell-tale signs include finding tiny round holes in wood or seeing fine, powderlike sawdust on the floor directly beneath the infested wood. |
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• Other Wood-Infesting Insects Other Wood-Infesting Insects encountered in our area include Anobiid beetles (furniture beetles & death-watch beetles), old house borers and carpenter bees. These beetles usually attack & feed on the sapwood of seasoned softwoods, and carpenter bees tunnel into wood to build their nest. Tip: Carpenter bees look similar to bumble bees but they rarely sting unless you try to grab them. Damage is usually limited to decorative wood or trim on the exterior of homes and wood structures. |
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• WDI Inspection & Treatment For more information about wood-destroying insects (WDI), termite inspections, and our treatment programs, contact a Wil-Kil Pest Specialist at (800) 236-8735. Note: Inspection and treatment for WDI should always be performed by a qualified, licensed PCO. |
