Wood Destroying Organism (WDO) Home Inspection Practice Exam

The correct choice focuses on carpenter ants, which are well known for their nesting behavior in wood. Unlike other wood-destroying organisms that primarily feed on wood for sustenance, carpenter ants excavate wood to create their nests. They do not eat the wood in the same way that termites do, but they can significantly damage wooden structures by hollowing them out. Carpenter ants prefer soft or decaying wood, although they can also infest sound wood, making them a concern for homeowners. Their destructive behavior often goes unnoticed until the damage becomes extensive, as they create smooth, clean galleries within the wood. This capability to excavate wood for nesting provides insight into their behavior and treatment methods in pest control. In contrast, subterranean termites consume wood as their primary diet, leading to damage primarily as a result of feeding rather than nesting. Powderpost beetles infest wood, laying their eggs within it and causing damage as the larvae feed on the wood. Drywood termites also consume wood, establishing colonies within the wood itself. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for effective pest management and prevention strategies.