Powderpost Beetle

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Powderpost Beetle

Powderpost beetles are not actually a species of beetle in and of themselves, but rather are a group of around 70 species of wood boring beetles. The moniker “powderpost” comes from the way in which larvae from this grouping of beetles feed on wood, over time, pulverizing the wood into a fine, powder-like substance. Due to this activity, powderpost beetles are considered pests. 

Powderpost beetles live along both the eastern and western coastlines of the United States, and all along its southern border. They are common from Florida through Rhode Island and along the entire length of the West Coast, from Southern California through Washington state. 

Powderpost Beetle Behavior

Powderpost beetles consume the wood of deciduous trees. Depending on the species of powderpost beetle, they will eat either hardwoods or softwoods. 

Powderpost beetle infestations can be difficult to recognize until the damage has been done. Powderpost beetle larvae spend between a few months to years inside infested wood as they mature into adulthood, subsisting on the starch content of the wood. Only after they become adults do they emerge from the wood, leaving behind tiny pinhole-sized openings. These openings are often referred to as “shot holes.” You might be able to recognize powderpost beetle infestations by identifying piles of powdery grass below these holes. Adult females that have just emerged can, if conditions are right, lay their eggs in the same place, re-infesting the wood which can perpetuate a powderpost infestation for a long time. 

How Much Damage Can Powderpost Beetles Do?

Powderpost beetles can cause serious damage to your home, and are second only to termites as destroyers of desiccated wood, like that used in buildings and furniture. While there are many different species of powderpost beetles, they all cause damage to wood in a similar manner and require similar control measures. Since you are more likely to see the damage caused by powderpost beetles than finding the beetles themselves, it is a sure bet that you are only seeing a small portion of your infestation.

If you have seen “shot holes” in the wood in your home, or have found piles of powdery frass, call a seasoned pest care professional near you to help with your powderpost beetle issue.

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If you are concerned about beetle control for your home, please give us a call or fill out the form on this page. PestControlExperts.com is a team of experts who are highly qualified to provide the best recommendations for you and your home, no matter which part of the United States you live in.