
Old House Borer
Uncover the secret life of wood-munching beetles in your home!

The Basics
Scientific Name
Hylotrupes bajulus
Conservation Status
Least Concern
Location
Eurasia
Average size
0.5 to 1 inch long
diet
Wood, especially in old buildings
lifespan
Up to 10 years
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Overview
The Old House Borer is a wood-loving beetle that can create quite a buzz in your home! Its scientific name is Hylotrupes bajulus, and despite its name, this insect is good at hiding and not so good at being found.
This beetle belongs to the insect class, which means it has six legs and a hard outer shell. Old House Borers range in size from 1.3 to 2.5 centimeters (0.5 to 1 inch) long, making them small enough to sneak around without being noticed!
These critters thrive on wood, especially in old buildings. They love to munch on softwoods like pine and spruce, turning sturdy structures into a snack bar for their insatiable appetite.
The Old House Borer does not have a short lifespan like some insects. It can live for up to 10 years, which gives it plenty of time to feast on wood and leave behind little tunnels as souvenirs of its dining adventures!
You might think of them as the carpenters of the insect world. Their activity helps break down wood, but they can cause little headaches for people if they decide to take up residence in your attic or basement!
So, if you ever spot a small beetle with a taste for timber, it might just be the Old House Borer. Just remember, while they may be chomping away, they are a part of nature's great recycling team!
Where can you find a Old House Borer in the wild?
What does a Old House Borer eat?
How big can a Old House Borer grow?
How long does a Old House Borer typically live?
What is the conservation status of the Old House Borer?
What are the main threats to the Old House Borer?
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