Asian Longhorned Beetle Found In Boston
During the July 4th weekend, a small infestation of the invasive Asian longhorned beetle was found in Jamaica Plain (Boston). The site is at Faulkner Hospital, just across from the Arnold Arboretum. Six infested maple trees were found, in close proximity to each other, and have already been removed by USDA/DCR. Surveys of the area continue, in order to determine the extent of the infestation.
It is extremely important to get the word out ASAP to everyone in the Boston and Brookline area to be on the lookout for:
- Adult Asian longhorned beetles (shiny black beetles with white spots and long, banded antennae)
- ALB exit holes (dime-sized, perfectly round holes, especially in maple, but also in birch, elm, horse chestnut, willow and other hardwood trees, but not oak, cherry or crabapple. Also does not attack conifers like pine, hemlock or spruce)
- ALB egg-laying sites (divots in the bark ranging in size from 1/4 to 3/4 inches across – fresh pits often have oozing, foaming sap)
If you see anything suspicious, report it immediately using our ALB reporting form, or call toll-free: 1-866-702-9938. Be sure to get photos or collect a specimen if you can.
If you are with an environmental group or other organization that needs outreach materials, the Mass. Dept. of Agricultural Resources will provide you with ID cards, fact sheets, etc., for free. MDAR can also provide public speakers for ALB training sessions. Contact jennifer.forman-orth@state.ma.us or call 617-626-1735 for more info.
Spread the word, not the beetle! Get all the latest ALB news at the ALB Cooperative Eradication Program website, subscribe to this bi-weekly newsletter, or follow ALB on Twitter at albtweets.
