Termite droppings vary with the type of termite species like drywood, dampwood or subterranean types.
The appearance of the droppings depend on the type of species, but mostly they are oval shaped, tiny with six concave sides and rounded ends.
These droppings, also called as frass or poop, are wood colored. The existence of termite poop indicates that there is a healthy termite activity in the surrounding area.
The termites that reside in the wood will make tiny holes to kick out the frass outside so that their nests are free from poop.
The termite pellets appear like tiny piles of pepper or salt. It is not suggested to clean up the frass as soon as you find it.
It is better to get it confirmed through a professional, who will not only clean it for you, but also exterminate the colonies.
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Droppings spot help you explore infested areas
Termite infested areas will surely reveal the infected areas through certain signs like termite droppings and detached wings.
If you encounter termite poop on a specific area, try to investigate about the infested area based on the area where the poop has been dropped.
on bed
If you encounter termite fecal pellets on bed, it means that there is an infestation on the roof or ceiling of your room. Check for small holes which are not bigger than pin holes over the ceiling from where the castings have been falling.
on window sill
Many times, you can find droppings over the window sills which appears to be out of place. You might also find piles of wings along with the poop.
Termites use their frass to build mud tunnels and nests. They prefer to occupy dry wood over the moisturized ones. This is one of the strong reasons to attack window sills and frames.
on carpet
Termites are well known to reside in cellulose based materials like wood. On the other hand, they are also capable enough to attack non-cellulose based materials like carpets.
The reason is that they start searching for food but their efforts go in vain. The result of this is holes in the carpet. As a result, you will see piles of termite poop underneath the carpet.
The solution for their eradication is to treat the area underneath the carpet with termite control method and thereby replace the carpet.
on floor
Termites also infest within the floor and hence, you can see the poop kicked out from the cracks. If it is a wooden or laminated floor, then the damage appears similar to that of a water damage.
You can see blisters and sags in the affected areas. They chew the laminate and make small holes to kick out the droppings through them.
Are termite droppings dangerous?
Termite fecal pellets are not known to be recorded as toxic. Instead they are rich in magnesium and hence some people like African tribes use it as a dietary supplement.
However, you should get it removed if found for various reasons like maintaining hygienic conditions and avoiding health risks.
Health risks associated with termite droppings
Termite infestations might not cause illness, but their droppings will surely cause uneasiness in terms of health.
The poop is just like a saw dust and when touches the skin might cause irritation and allergic reactions. According to Termite Institute, some people have complained about asthmatic attacks.
Usually, the heating and ventilation systems in a house will get exposed to dust and particulates from both termites and their nests.
Apart from this, health risk is also associated with termite eradication as you might suffer illness due to the chemicals used in the termite treatment procedures.
Clear the droppings and stay hygienic
Termite droppings are neither known to be toxic or cause health issues. However, their existence might result in health issues like skin allergies and asthma problems as the droppings are fine and light weighted like a saw dust.
If you find the termite poop in your home, see the position of the droppings spot to investigate the infested area. Follow termite control methods to eradicate them completely.
