What is a common misconception about termites?

A common misconception about termites is that they only eat wet wood. In reality, while termites are attracted to moist environments and prefer wood that has some level of moisture, they can and do consume both dry and wet wood. This adaptability allows them to infest a wide range of materials, as most wood will eventually retain some level of moisture, either through environmental factors or structural issues such as leaks. This belief that termites are limited strictly to wet wood can lead to insufficient inspections and treatments, as it may cause individuals to overlook infestations in drier wood or other cellulose materials, such as drywall or cardboard, which termites can also digest.

Understanding the broader dietary habits of termites is crucial for effective pest control and management, ensuring that all potential feeding sites are evaluated and treated appropriately to prevent and mitigate damage.