Old emergence holes can remain visible for years. Fresh frass, live insects and timber condition are more useful when assessing current activity.
What to check
- Look for fresh bore dust
- Check timber condition
- Use specialist assessment where structural timber may be affected
Useful products for this wood-boring insects guide
Useful monitoring, inspection, proofing or protection categories to consider after you have identified the problem.
Inspection Torch
Useful for checking conditions, evidence and hard-to-see areas before deciding what to do next.
Magnifier Inspection Lens
Useful for checking conditions, evidence and hard-to-see areas before deciding what to do next.
Digital Hygrometer
Useful for checking conditions, evidence and hard-to-see areas before deciding what to do next.
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Prices and availability are shown by Amazon after you click. Follow product instructions and use only products appropriate to the identified problem.
Use evidence, not guesses
Record what you have seen, where it appears and whether the evidence is fresh. Compare the relevant PestDeck pest profiles before choosing treatment.
When to get help
Professional identification is sensible when the evidence is unclear, activity is established or recurring, access is difficult, a business or shared building is affected, or wildlife and safety rules may apply.
Turn the guide into a decision
Not sure what pest you have? Start with photographs and evidence. Know the problem already? Search the relevant service in your area.