Death watch beetle  (Xestobium rufovillosum)

The larvae of this common beetle are notorious pests of furniture and structural timbers in buildings (3). The adults have cylindrical bodies and small heads (2). The common name refers to the repeated ticking sound produced by the adults as they bang their heads against the wood, possibly to attract a mate. When heard at night, this eerie mating call was once thought to count down to the time of death (4).

Common and widespread in southern England (1). Less common as a pest species in the north of England (1).

Occurs as a pest of wood indoors or in dead wood of very old trees outside (1).

Adults may be found on flowers during the spring. In many species belonging to this family of beetles (Anobiidae), the gut contains microorganisms that help the beetles to break down the cellulose found in wood (2). The adult females lay eggs in crevices on the wood, and the larvae tunnel in after hatching (5). The presence of the larvae in wood can go unnoticed until the adults emerge, leaving distinctive holes at the surface. These exit holes measure around 3-4 mm in diameter (3).

This pest species is not threatened.

Conservation action is not required for this species.

For more on invertebrates and their conservation see Buglife- the invertebrate conservation trust:
http://www.buglife.org.uk

This information is awaiting authentication by a species expert, and will be updated as soon as possible. If you are able to help please contact:
arkive@wildscreen.org.uk