Ohio Hunters Asked to Help Spot Asian Longhorned Beetle

COLUMBUS, OH - Ohio hunters are asked to be on the lookout for trees displaying signs and symptoms of Ohio’s newest, non-native invasive insect, the Asian longhorned beetle, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife.

Hunters pursuing game in Ohio’s woodlots, especially in southwestern Ohio, are encouraged to report sightings of any suspicious tree damage or beetles. While the Asian longhorned beetle (ALB) has only been found in Clermont County in Tate Township and parts of Monroe Township, hunters should be alert for this pest in trees across the state.

Trees affected by the ALB include all species of maple, birch, horse chestnut, poplar, willow, elm, ash, mimosa, mountain ash, London plane, and Ohio buckeye.

Hunters should look for trees displaying large, round exit holes with smooth edges, often oozing sap, as a strong indication ofALB activity. Frequently, piles of frass (insect waste and sawdust) are found at the base of infested trees and in branch crotches. Leaves of infested trees may also exhibit unseasonable yellowing or drooping.

Hunters can report suspicious tree damage or suspected ALBs by calling toll free at (855) 252-6450 or going online to www.BeetleBusters.info.

Hunters are also encouraged to buy firewood near their destination – BUY IT WHERE YOU BURN IT. Invasive species can “hitch-hike” to new wooded areas and cause infestations, impacting the landscapes that are enjoyed for hunting. There are several quarantines in Ohio that restrict the movement of firewood; protect our forests by not moving firewood.

The ALB already has caused tens of thousands of hardwood trees to be destroyed in Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York.

This invasive beetle has no known natural predators and poses a threat to Ohio’s hardwood forests (more than $2.5 billion in standing maple timber) and the state’s $5 billion nursery industry, which employs nearly 240,000 people.

Learn more about the Asian longhorned beetle at agri.ohio.gov/TopNews/asianbeetle/