Deathwatch beetles are closely related to the drugstore and cigarette beetles, which are stored-product pests. Adults communicate with each other and probably locate mates by tapping their heads against wood, usually at night. Adults are reddish to dark brown and lay eggs in crevices or small openings or pores in unfinished wood. Two years may be required to complete each generation. Deathwatch beetles are found primarily in soft woods, including girders, beams, foundation timbers, and some types of furniture.
Some species attack books.
This beetle is typically found in old wood and may be associated with wood that is partially decayed. None of the other boring beetles produce pelletized frass. Adults are dark brown or black, sometimes with reddish mouthparts, legs, and antennae. Adult beetles have a humpback appearance, so their head is not visible when viewed from above. This characteristic is also seen in deathwatch beetles.