Michigan asks residents to check trees for invasive beetle

Michigan’s Invasive Species Program and the U.S. Department of Agriculture are asking residents to look for and report signs of the invasive Asian longhorned beetle during August, when the insect and its tree damage are most likely to be seen.

The beetle attacks hardwood trees. Females chew depressions in bark to lay eggs, and larvae tunnel into heartwood before emerging the next summer through round exit holes. Infested trees do not recover and can become hazards as branches drop or trees fall.

Officials said suspected beetles or tree damage should be photographed and reported through the Asian longhorned beetle hotline at 866-702-9938 or the state’s online reporting page. Residents are also urged not to move untreated firewood, which can carry the pest to new areas.

Read the full story at michigan.gov.