We found a stick with squiggly lines on it, what are they?

Question

My daughter found a stick in the yard, I have no idea what kind of wood it is, it has this squiggly line in it, like something ate a path. It's very random and varies in width from 1/10 cm to 1/2 cm. The stick doesn't have any bark on it. We can't figure out if this was created by an insect, worm or person, but she's determined to find out what this squiggly line is. Any ideas??

Answer 1

Those are worm or bore "tunnels". The only way to tell what exactly made them is to find out where the wood came from & look for the insects under the bark.

Answer 2

Sounds like termites got to the wood. It sounds like a piece of wood which probably dampwood termites ate. I'm guessing the grooves are nice and round. It's probably old, since you don't mention any kind of dirt on it.

Answer 3

worms or termites. More than likely worms. Have you ever heard of worm wood? Some people like to use it in decorating their houses for flooring if big enough or for tables, etc....