Research

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The latest addition to our Wonder Table came from two 4th grade boys who must have been "wondering" about this wood they found on the Nature Trail near our school. They knew it was from a tree that had been eaten by insects. We wondered about what insect was responsible for the unique, almost geometric, holes.

We did not have any library books that helped so I turned to the Internet. However, my Google search wasn't giving me a conclusive answer. What I really needed was a way to show the photo to an expert so I took a picture. I thought of some URI researchers but realized the fastest way for me to get an answer was to email a local pest control fellow who has a column in a local paper. The photo below shows my email plus his answer - the main culprits were Carpenter Ants but other wood-boring insects were involved also. My appreciation to Mr. David Jones and his prompt, expert answer (also to Nancy Ferri, Library Clerk, who did a Google search and figured it was Carpenter Ants.

My biggest appreciation goes to the two 4th graders, James and Ethan, who brought in this interesting specimen for us to wonder about and examine - thanks, guys!