What is typically a sign of termite activity in wooden structures?

Wood that sounds hollow when tapped is a common indication of termite activity in wooden structures. Termites, particularly drywood and subterranean species, consume wood from the inside out, which can create a hollow or resonant sound when the affected wood is struck. This auditory clue signifies that the integrity of the wood may have been compromised due to the feeding activities of termites, ultimately helping to identify the presence of an infestation.

The other signs of termite activity mentioned, such as mud tubes, visible exit holes, and faint wood staining, are also valid indicators but are associated with different behaviors or conditions of termite infestation. Mud tubes, for example, are typically constructed by subterranean termites to provide moisture and shelter while traveling between their nest and a food source. Visible exit holes are often left by drywood termites when they emerge to reproduce, and faint wood staining usually indicates previous damage rather than ongoing activity. However, the hollow sound of wood under tapping is a direct reflection of active feeding and present damage, making it a clear sign of termite activity.