What insect caused the 1/2 inch holes in the stem of my willows?

Question

I noticed a hole in the ground where the trees had been removed.  Is the insect feeding off the roots that remain?  Now I notice holes in the ground within 4-5 feet from an oak that is located about twenty feet from where the willows were.  Ants also invaded the willows which speeded up their demise.

There is no buildup of dirt, etc. on the outside of the holes in the ground.  The openings are "smooth".

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Answer 1

could be termites or carpenter ants...............try straight vinegar in the hole with a funnel....do it every day for 1 week.....about 2 cups................

That is the safest thing...but if you have children or pets you would have to keep them out of the yard and mix up Sevin according to directions.  Pour it down the hole, make up a snall cone out of foil and then bag and trash it...I always use throw away gloves with chemicals with goggles & face mask.