Deathwatch Beetle Help !

[masochists-r-us]

Have spent an interesting hour or so this evening listening to a Deathwatch Beetle having a conversation with a recording of one we found on an Internet video clip.
We have quite a bit of green oak up here as we have had to install some new spine beams and joists (not treated) so a bit worried and looking for some good advice.
We think our beetle is resident in some rotting timber in the remains of an old window opening which we are planning to re-open later on this year.

 

[Carol]

Poor you! I sympathise, having had same noisy problem a few years ago. We found some comfort tapping back, and once the rotten wood had been removed and the roof made watertight the noises stopped.

 

[Flyfisher]

We think our beetle is resident in some rotting timber in the remains of an old window opening which we are planning to re-open later on this year.

I'm no expert but that sounds the most likely habitat to me as I understand they need wood with a certain moisture content. So, on that basis, nothing too much to worry about.

Hopefully our resident entomological/mycobiological expert will drop by and confirm or deny.

 

[middi]

The good news is that they breed every 12 years or so ( I think !!). If they do not intice another dwb of the opposite and get their leg over they will die extremely frustrated

Middi

 

[Matt Green]

We think our beetle is resident in some rotting timber in the remains of an old window opening which we are planning to re-open later on this year.

I'm no expert but that sounds the most likely habitat to me as I understand they need wood with a certain moisture content. So, on that basis, nothing too much to worry about.

Not much more to add to that. You've identified the insects and where they are living. You have a pretty good idea what the problem is and have a time scale to deal with it. Sounds like there's nothing to worry about there.

12 years is a little on the long side. 5 years if the conditions are good, double that if they are bad. Good for death watch is bad for you though. :wink:

 

[masochists-r-us]

Many thanks for your assurances.We were hoping it wouldn't be too much to worry about. Thanks also Middi, you gave us good laugh as usual.