By Jamie Martin
August is an important month for monitoring tree health as adult Asian longhorned beetles become more visible across affected areas. Experts encourage residents to inspect trees and report any signs of infestation.
The invasive pest is known for attacking hardwood trees and can eventually kill them if infestations are not addressed. Maple trees are particularly vulnerable, although the insect can also affect birch, elm, willow, buckeye, and other species.
“August is the perfect time for people to spot the Asian longhorned beetle,” said Agriculture Under Secretary Dudley Hoskins. “When residents take a few minutes to check their trees, they become our partners in protecting trees. Every report, whether it’s a beetle sighting or signs of damage, helps us act quickly and prevent this invasive pest from spreading.”
Adult beetles are easiest to spot during late summer because they are active on tree trunks, branches, outdoor furniture, decks, and surrounding surfaces. Finding infestations early provides the best chance to limit their spread and protect nearby trees.
The insect has several distinctive features. It has a black body covered with white spots, long striped antennae, and legs that may appear bluish. These characteristics can help people identify the pest during visual inspections.
Signs of an infested tree include pencil-sized holes in trunks or branches, egg-laying scars in the bark, sawdust-like debris collected near trees, and unexplained dying branches. Any of these warning signs should be taken seriously and investigated further.
Residents can support tree protection efforts by inspecting trees regularly, avoiding the transportation of untreated firewood, and reporting suspicious findings. Photographs and properly preserved samples can assist experts with identification.
Photo Credit: pexels-amber-shadow
Categories: National