Watch Out For The Asian Longhorn Beetle, A Bug That Invaded Massachusetts And Killed Off Thousands Of Trees
By E Jamar|Published January 07, 2020
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E Jamar
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E Jamar is a published writer based in Milwaukee, WI. Despite being a Midwesterner at heart, you can often find them trekking throughout the states and discovering new hidden gems. When they're not traveling, you can find them discussing disability issues, cuddling their pug puppy, and checking out new local spots.
While you’re out and about in Massachusetts nature, you’ll find all kinds of unique plants, animals, and insects. However, the Asian Longhorn Beetle was first noticed in North America back in the ’90s, and has since invaded the Bay State, killing more than 80,000 trees. The Asian Longhorn Beetle infests many different type of trees, and while the greatest infestation was in Worcester, there was also a smaller infestation in Boston. It’s helpful to be able to identify this beetle so that something can be done before it spreads.
The Asian Longhorn Beetle invaded Massachusetts back in 2008, and again in 2010 and killed thousands of trees.
It's important to know what to look for. Back in 2009, the USDA received numerous falls threats of the Asian Longhorn Beetle because people didn't know exactly what to look for.
These beetles, also known as ALB, infest hardwood trees like maples, birch, willow, elm, ash, and more.
If your trees are infested by ALB, one of the most noticeable signs are perfectly round holes with smooth edges. You may also notice sawdust on the ground, or see a beetle itself crawling about.
If you spot an Asian Longhorn Beetle in Massachusetts, you'll want to report it to the Massachusetts ALB Cooperative Eradication Program. You can do so by visiting this website or calling 1-866-702-9938.
While the Asian Longhorn Beetle is harmless to humans, it can devastatingly infest our trees. Make sure to keep an eye out and know how to identify these bugs.
For more information on how to identify an Asian Longhorn Beetle, take a look at this lookalike chart by the USDA. For even more information, click here.
Have you ever spotted an Asian Longhorn Beetle in your area? What other bugs are you aware of? We’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments, and don’t forget to then go share photos from your Massachusetts outdoor adventures with us in our Massachusetts Nature Lovers group on Facebook, or by tagging us at #onlyinmassachusetts on Instagram for a chance to be featured!
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