Is this a termite? - Ask Extension
I just saw an unusual bug on a recently installed outdoor frame on my deck steps. (the deck is a few years old. I am worried that it could be a Wester...
Knowledgebase
Is this a termite? #721430
Asked September 06, 2020, 1:46 PM EDT
I just saw an unusual bug on a recently installed outdoor frame on my deck steps. (the deck is a few years old. I am worried that it could be a Western dry wood termite (wingless) but I hope not!
Ramsey County Minnesota
Expert Response
Sorry for the delay in answering your question. We don't typically have western dry wood termites in Minnesota. Let me ask the entomologist.
Here is his answer.
Subterranean termites are uncommonly found in Minnesota. We do not have any drywood termites in Minnesota.
However, the insect in question is a rove beetle, a harmless common native insect. Information and pictures can be found here, https://bugguide.net/node/view/126.
Oh, what a relief! And thanks for the link to such a helpful page - I've saved it to bookmarks already. Thank you and have a fabulous day. Entomologists rock!
