Drywood termites are less common and less numerous than subterranean termites. Damage can be caused by a mature colony that contains several hundred to a few thousand workers. Unlike subterranean termites, drywood termites attack dry, sound wood and do not need contact with the ground.
Most infestations are in buildings and furniture, although they can also occur in firewood and piles of lumber.
Be alert to weakened planks of wood in your house that may result from drywood termite damage. If you are buying secondhand or antique furniture, inspect items closely.
In addition to weakened wood, drywood termites make small holes from their nest from which they will drop small, hard fecal pellets. A pile of pellets beneath older furniture or lumber is often a sign of drywood termites.
Fumigation is usually the recommended treatment for drywood termites.