For such a small insect, termites can cause a lot of damage, and it’s all because of their diet. A termite’s primary food source is cellulose, a material found in wood and many everyday products. Because homes are full of cellulose-based materials, a termite infestation can quickly become destructive.
While wood is their main source of cellulose, the termite diet may surprise you. Items that can become termite food include:
Because these materials are common in every home, a termite infestation can reach well beyond wooden beams. If you’ve noticed damaged paper products or hollow-sounding walls, it may be time to look for other signs of termite infestations.
Termites aren’t drawn to crumbs or leftovers the way ants and cockroaches are. Instead, they may chew through cardboard boxes, paper bags, or other packaging to reach the cellulose. So while you won’t find termites on food, you could see damage to the containers it’s stored in.
Understanding where termites feed can help explain what termites eat. Common areas include:
Subterranean species, in particular, build mud tubes that connect soil to wood inside the home, allowing them to feed on wooden structures above ground while staying hidden and protected. Drywood termites, on the other hand, feed directly inside the wood where they live, often leaving behind small piles of frass (termite droppings) pushed out through kick-out holes.
Dampwood termites prefer moist, decaying wood, so they are often found in areas with leaks or high moisture levels, such as basements or near plumbing.
Because termites eat quietly inside structures, the first signs are often subtle. Watch for:
These are all signs that a colony has been active and feeding for some time.
Cellulose is everywhere in and around your home, which is why termites can be so destructive. While some homeowners try temporary fixes, the only way to stop an infestation is with professional help. Our team can identify the species of termite and provide expert inspections and treatment to address colonies at the source. Learn more about our termite control services and how we can help protect your home.
In nature, termites feed on dead trees, fallen branches, and other decaying plant matter rich in cellulose.
Termites don’t necessarily eat drywall, but rather burrow through it randomly, searching for cellulose. This can still destroy drywall and weaken it over time.
Drywood termites prefer dry, accessible wood, while subterranean termites often target wood in contact with soil. Both species can also feed on paper, cardboard, and other cellulose-based items inside your home.
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