The presence of this beetle is usually
indicated by the conspicuous 3-4mm exit holes in the dead
wood of trees. The Death Watch Beetle, is a notorious
pest of wood (including furniture) and is obviously
widespread and common in the ancient Oaks of Sherwood
Forest, but the actual beetle is not often encountered.
In April 2015, we found two adults located within dead
wood, but on a live Oak at Sherwood Forest CP. The Death
Watch Beetle derives its name from the clicking sound the
male makes (possibly to attract a female) but many years
ago, when heard coming from within furniture, it was
considered to be the clock ticking down to the time of a
death. |