[ Update: I went to the back side of the walls, ie exterior. And updated a few more photos. Possibly the cause ]
Saw this small holes over my fireplace. And lot of sand like stuff on the ground.
When I put my ear against the wall, I think I hear something.
Photos attached.
Is this because of termites ?
Adding three more photos for more context. First show inside of house, second size, its next to the fireplace. And one to show the back of it, where we have brick walls.
==== The wood looks damaged, possibly from water ===
Best Answer
I've seen bees do the same kind of damage, however those are small holes. I have also seen the smaller almost yellow jacket looking insects burrow into wood also, but I'm no entomologist so I couldn't tell you whathat they may be. I do know that spraying some wasp killer into those holes will most likely get rid of the problem if you don't wanna pay an exterminator. Those bees would burrow into the wooden beams on the outside porch. To eradicate them I'd plug all the holes but one and spray into the remaining exit, but they always come back. I've not seen them indoors though. Edit* Just remembered another method of eradication - WD40 works just fine, and the tiny straw will fit right in those holes. Hope that helps.