Pseudergates excavate galleries in sapwood in preference to heartwood, but show no preference between annual spring and summer growth rings. Because drywood termites seek protection from external predation, galleries are concealed beneath the wood surface. Sounding with a hard implement can locate hollowed-out wood. A very thin wood surface in late stages of attack may have a blistered appearance. Pellets will accumulate in piles directly beneath holes.
Pile diameter is proportional to the height from which pellets fall.
Drywood termite fecal pellets, with six longitudinal surfaces capped with one rounded and one more tapered end, are uniquely shaped compared to all other wood-infesting insects. Pellets vary in color from cream to red to black and are expelled periodically from different kick-out holes communicating with the gallery system. Pellets do not change in shape or color over time and their color is often unrelated to the wood from which they were expelled. Swarming alates, wings, and ejected fecal pellets are a sanitary nuisance, and pellets may present a slipping hazard on smooth floors. Structures only 5-10 years old may harbor infestations requiring treatment.