Termites only eat natural substances (cellulose), and thus, don't produce waste that is dangerous to humans or pets. However, the frass is just like sawdust, and when touched, it may cause irritation and allergic reactions to the skin.
- What are termite droppings made of?
- Is termite poop harmful to humans?
- What do I do if I find termite poop?
- How do you know if termite droppings are old or new?
What are termite droppings made of?
When drywood termites clean their nests, they push their fecal pellets (remnants of digested wood) out through kick out holes in the wood. You may find little mounds of pellet-shaped droppings directly underneath the kick out holes (also called exit holes).
Is termite poop harmful to humans?
Termite droppings, also referred to as “frass,” is a sure sign of a termite infestation in your home. Termite waste is not in and of itself hazardous. Unlike rat feces or other animal waste, there is no potential danger of communicable disease from coming into contact with termite droppings.
What do I do if I find termite poop?
Drywood termites can cause serious structural damage, so if you see frass and think you may have these pests in your home, you need to contact an exterminator immediately. Depending on the extent of the infestation, your exterminator may fumigate the home or spot-treat the infested wood.
How do you know if termite droppings are old or new?
There's no way to tell how old termite feces are. They don't usually change color or texture over time, so old and new droppings look largely the same.