Death watch beetle

Death Watch Beetle primarily attacks hardwoods, mainly large section timbers of Oak and Elm. Infestation of softwood will usually only occur where the timbers are adjacent to hardwoods, e.g. softwood flooring boards over Oak joists. For severe infestation to occur dampness is essential and when in association with fungal decay will often lead to a rapid development of the infestation. Established infestations will invariably cause substantial structural weakening of timbers, often resulting in the hollowing out of large dimension timber beams. Infestations are frequently found in joist ends embedded in masonry, wall plates, sole plates; generally areas where the timber members are prone to dampness.

The life cycle of this beetle can vary enormously, from as little as around 4 years where conditions are ideal, to as long as 12 years where a slow infestation of drier timber occurs. The adult beetles, larger than Common Furniture Beetles, emerge from the timber from March to June following pupation. The emergence holes are circular of approximately 3mm diameter, the adult beetles being 6-9 mm in length. Following, mating, the female will lay up to 50 eggs on the surfaces and in crevices of surrounding timbers. The well known ‘tapping’ sound that is associated with this beetle is a mating call frequently heard during the emergence season.

Infestations of Death Watch Beetle are common throughout the United Kingdom.