The deathwatch beetle is a wood-boring insect belonging to the family Anobiidae. It is known for its distinctive clicking sound, which is produced by the male beetle tapping its head against wood. This sound is often associated with the presence of decay, as the beetle typically infests old or damaged timber, including furniture and structural wood in buildings. These beetles are small, usually measuring about 4 to 7 millimeters in length, and have a brown or black coloration. The larvae of the deathwatch beetle create tunnels in wood as they feed, which can lead to significant damage over time. Their presence is often a sign of wood rot, making them a concern for homeowners and those involved in construction and restoration.