Emerald Ash Borer

Category:

Actual Size: 7 to 8 mm

Characteristics: Long narrow body; shiny emerald or coppery green.

Legs: Yes

Antennae: Yes

Wings: Yes, and can fly short distances.

Habitat: Will live in any location near a population of ash trees. Firewood is one of the main pathways by which this insect has been moved to new locations by humans.

Habits:

  • Transported through human activity, such as moving firewood.
  • Highly destructive wood-boring beetle that feeds on the tissue of ash trees.
  • Since 2002, the beetle has destroyed hundreds of millions of ash trees in North America.


Emerald Ash Borers in Anaheim

Emerald ash borers were first identified in the United States in 2002. Since then, they’ve been responsible for killing hundreds of millions of ash trees across the country by feeding on the tree tissue. Most emerald ash borers spread through the transportation of lumber and firewood. Adults can also fly short distances, carrying them from tree to tree. Unfortunately, if you detect an emerald ash borer, any trees within a 10-15 mile radius could be at risk. 

Emerald Ash Borer Beetle Habitat

Emerald ash borers are native to Asia and were likely carried to North America through cargo ships or airplanes with solid wood packing material. These pests primarily feed on ash trees, including white ash, black ash, and green ash. Adults flock to these trees for eating and breeding. After hatching, the larvae will also feed, leaving S-shaped lines just underneath the tree’s bark. This feeding routine makes it difficult for the trees to move water and nutrients from its root system, which eventually kills the tree.

Emerald Ash Borer Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers

Though they are not considered dangerous to human health, emerald ash borers are extremely destructive to our environment. These small beetles feed on ash trees, which can completely kill them over time. Most people notice infestations because of a thinning tree canopy or yellowing leaves. Infestations also rarely remain in just one tree and can spread rapidly throughout a forested area. If you suspect you are dealing with emerald ash borers, contact a professional beetle removal company as quickly as possible to stop the pests before they can cause extensive damage.