Now, a device that can hear termites chew

Scientists have come up with a new wireless device which they claim can detect the presence of termites by “hearing” them chew through timber. 

    A team at Edith Cowan University says that the sensitive device, called wireless smart probe (WiSPr) network for acoustic detection, is also capable of locating termite activity in timber bridges and wooden power poles. 

    And, once detected, the device can immediately send an SMS or email to a pest control firm — with the termites’ GPS location — so they can take appropriate action to protect the property. The developers are looking to commercialize the device in the next 12 months. 

    The technology consists of a tiny sensor — smaller than a fingernail — which is attached to a piece of wood and placed around the house to existing termite stations.