What type of wood do drywood termites typically feed and nest on in North Carolina?

Drywood termites are known to infest and feed on undecayed wood that has low moisture content. This preference is largely due to their ability to extract moisture from the wood they consume, which allows them to thrive in environments that are not overly damp. Unlike other termite species that may require higher moisture levels and typically infest decayed or damaged wood, drywood termites can inhabit structural timbers that are sound and dry, making them particularly challenging to control.

In the case of the other options, decayed wood high in moisture content is more appealing to other wood-destroying organisms, such as fungi, rather than drywood termites. Also, wood treated with high chemical preservatives or pesticides may deter various pests, including termites, but this does not align with the natural feeding and nesting behavior of drywood termites. Therefore, the focus on undecayed wood low in moisture content is critical for understanding the ecological niche that these termites occupy in North Carolina.