Dampwood Termite

Natural Habitat

Typically found in wood with high moisture content, such as decaying logs, stumps, and wood in contact with wet soil or leaky pipes.

Diet & Feeding

Decaying wood and cellulose; they specifically target wood that is damp or rotting due to fungal growth.

Behavior Patterns

They live in small colonies and rarely nest in soil. They are less structural pests than other termites unless moisture problems exist in a building. Alates (swarmers) typically appear after rain to mate.

Risks & Benefits

Risk: Can cause structural damage to homes if there is persistent moisture or wood-to-soil contact. Benefit: Help decompose dead wood in forest ecosystems, recycling nutrients back into the soil.

Identified on: 5/30/2026