How to Identify Termites: Signs and Common Types
Termites can be difficult to identify because many live inside wood or underground. In California, common termite groups include subterranean, drywood, and dampwood termites. Their signs and habitats differ, so the clues you find can help guide an inspection—but a professional may need to confirm the pest and activity.
Signs of termites around your home
These signs can help you spot a possible problem, but they don’t always identify the termite type or confirm an active infestation.
Mud or shelter tubes on foundations, walls, or other surfaces. Subterranean termites use these tubes to travel from soil to wood.
Discarded wings near windows, doors, or other light sources. A swarm can be a clue, though seeing flying termites doesn’t always mean the building is infested.
Small pellets or droppings beneath wood. Drywood termite pellets may point to activity, but pellets alone can’t confirm whether an infestation is active.
Damaged or hollow-sounding wood, which can have several causes and should be assessed in context.
Common termites in California
Subterranean termites nest in soil and may reach a home through wood touching soil or through mud tubes. Those tubes are one of the most visible clues to look for. These termites are found throughout California.
Drywood termites live inside wood and don’t need contact with soil. Look for small kick-out holes and pellets beneath infested wood. Pellets are a useful clue, but they don’t establish whether the infestation is currently active.
Dampwood termites are associated with very moist or decaying wood, often near a leak or another persistent moisture source. Finding damp or rotting wood is a reason to address the moisture problem and consider an inspection.
Termites or carpenter ants?
Carpenter ants and termites can both damage wood, but carpenter ants excavate wood for nesting rather than eating it. Winged ants have a narrow waist and elbowed antennae; winged termites have a broader waist and straight or beaded antennae. Carpenter-ant debris is more sawdust-like, while drywood termite droppings are pellets.