A small dirt trail on a wall may look harmless, but it can be an early warning sign of termites. These trails often develop

into mud tubes—narrow tunnels made of soil, wood, and moisture that termites use to travel safely between their underground

colonies and food sources. Because termites can’t survive long in open air, these tubes shield them from light and predators.

Finding such tubes indoors usually means termites have already reached a home’s wooden framework. They’re silent destroyers,

often causing damage for months before visible signs appear. By the time the tubes are noticed,

repairs can be costly—termite damage leads to billions in property losses each year, and most insurance policies don’t cover it.

If you spot a mud tube, don’t remove it immediately. Call a licensed pest control professional who can confirm the infestation,

assess damage, and provide effective treatment. Afterward, take preventive steps: control moisture,

keep firewood away from your home, seal foundation cracks, and schedule annual inspections.

A simple dirt trail might seem minor, but it can reveal a hidden invasion. Catching it early could save

your home—and your wallet—from serious termite damage.