What does the presence of mud tubes on a structure indicate?

The presence of mud tubes on a structure is a definitive indicator of termite infestation, particularly from subterranean termites. These pests construct mud tubes as protective highways, allowing them to travel between their underground nests and food sources without exposing themselves to predators or dry air, which can be detrimental to their survival. The construction of these tubes is a critical part of their lifestyle, enabling them to move moisture and food materials back to their colonies efficiently.

In contrast, while carpenter bees, water damage, and ant activity may cause issues for structures, they do not produce mud tubes. Carpenter bees create perfectly round holes in wood, water damage leads to discoloration and structural issues without any mud tube formations, and ant activity often involves pheromone trails and nests but lacks the mud tube structure associated specifically with termites.