insects in walking stick

[RandyHjr]

I have run into a problem with a few sticks that I have found in the same area. Little white worm looking larva in the sticks. The sticks are still in good shape and there are not many of them. I am leaving the bark on the sticks and just carving sections of the stick. Is there a way to get them out? Or just finish the stick with them in it. I have only run across maybe one or two in each stick and have check the stick for multiple worm holes and did not see many of them. About 3 or 4 per stick. I don't think the sticks where on the ground long enough to get infested. Should I just toss the sticks?

[SimonLawton]

I would keep them separate from your other stock, and find out about a wood insect solution you could paint on to absorb into the sticks and kill the little buggers!

[Merle Rice]

I had a few sticke with Ants in them. I did the Stick as usual and finally finished With Clear Shellac making sure to fill the holes good. If their was Ants still in their that's the problem of the Ants. If their was holes visable that added character to the Stick. So far none has dug out. Merle

[dnstehly]

If I have any reason to suspect critters in my stock I saturate it with DAP Woodlife. If holes are apparent I inject the Woodlife directly into the hole with a syringe. This suff is essentially a biocide and nothing will live through that simple treatment. Be careful, however, to let it completely dry before doing any carving. I let it cure out until I can't detect the odor any longer. Also, if you do any power carving on the piece be sure to wear a respiratory mask.

[Marvin Little]

I have had a few problems with woodworms. These are larvae of a moth. The eggs are laid on the bark and the worm eats into the stick. If I feel that the strength of the stick is compromised then I toss it. If there is only one or two I heat the stick very hot with a heat gun to kill the worm. You will need to remove thew bark to see how bad the infestation is. Sometimes they are only under the bark and the worm tracks leave interesting patterns on the wood.

Marvin