The life cycle of beetles begins when eggs are laid in the pores and cracks of wood and wooden items. Once hatched, tiny larvae emerge and bore into the wood through the bottom of the egg. These larvae can live within the wood for years, feeding on it and creating a network of intricate internal tunnels. Unlike termites that attack wood for cellulose, powder post beetles are drawn to timber due to its high starch content. The frass found in these tunnels is essentially beetle excreta and undigested wood cellulose. Adult beetles make their exit by creating tiny, pin-head sized holes, known as shot holes or flight holes, living for approximately 8-10 weeks. Pairing typically occurs immediately after the emergence of adults, leading to the laying of new eggs. The entire life cycle can take from 6 months to a year, or even up to 5 years, depending on the species and environmental conditions. New infestations occur when adult beetles migrate to new locations. A key characteristic of this pest is that its presence often remains hidden for a long time, usually noticed only after at least one generation when adults start emerging through shot holes and powder begins to fall from them.