| Deathwatch beetles (Anobiids) | Deathwatch beetles (Anobiids) | Deathwatch beetles or anobiids are reddish to chocolate brown beetles ranging from 1/8 to 1/4 inch long. These beetles are rarely seen by people, but fresh piles of granular or gritty frass (insect excrement) on the outside of joists, mudsills, etc. are a sign of their presence. The larval form spends 4-5 years feeding on wood before emerging, mating and laying eggs. Their preferred host woods are softwoods including Douglas fir, but some species may be found occasionally on hardwoods. Anobiids can be found in crawl spaces, basements, attics, and other structures with a moisture content of around 14-17%. They can hollow out pier posts, joists, studs and sill plates of homes. They are problematic when crawl spaces are not vented properly and when vapor barriers are either missing or fall into a state of disrepair. They can cause huge economic losses to buildings if not eradicated. |
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