Tree problems · Insect

Southern pine beetle: signs and what to do

Southern pine beetle is an insect pest, often seen on loblolly pine, slash pine, Virginia pine. Look for: small pitch tubes (popcorn-sized blobs of resin) on the trunk where beetles entered.

General information, not a diagnosis. A certified arborist or your county extension office can confirm.

Insect
Loblolly pine
Slash pine
Virginia pine
Eastern white pine
Other southern yellow pines

Signs to look for

Tick what you see. More ticks make it more likely, but only an on-site look can confirm.

Small pitch tubes (popcorn-sized blobs of resin) on the trunk where beetles entered
S-shaped tunnels under the bark in a winding pattern
Needles that turn yellow, then red, then brown as the tree dies
Fine reddish-brown boring dust in bark crevices and at the base of the tree
Groups of dying pines spreading outward over weeks or months
Tiny exit holes in the bark, like shotgun pellet holes

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Season

The beetle can be active across many months in warm areas and produces several generations in a year. Outbreaks are often noticed in spring and summer when needles change color.

How it spreads

Beetles fly to nearby pines and use scent to attack in groups. Stressed pines from drought, crowding or storm damage are more likely to be attacked, and outbreaks can grow from spot to spot.

Where it is found

Southern pine beetle is a native pest of pines in the southern and southeastern United States. Check your state official map; ranges change.

Official sources

What to do

1
Look closely at pines with fading needles for pitch tubes and S-shaped tunnels under the bark.
2
Take photos and contact your state forestry agency or county extension office quickly, because beetle spots can grow fast.
3
Ask a forester or certified arborist about removing infested trees promptly, as agencies often advise.
4
Do not leave freshly cut infested pines lying near healthy pines without advice from your agency.
5
Keep remaining pines healthy: avoid root damage, soil compaction and over-crowding.
6
Ask your state forestry agency if any cost-share or technical help is offered.

Safety first: do not climb, do not cut near power lines and do not use a chainsaw on storm-loaded wood. Call the utility for downed lines and 911 if anyone is in danger.

Prevention

Healthy, well-spaced pines resist attack better. Thinning crowded stands, avoiding soil compaction, and protecting roots during building work all help. In some cases, a pro may talk about preventive treatments for high-value pines. Ask your state forestry agency for guidance that fits your area.

When to call a pro

Call a forester or certified arborist when pines show fading needles or pitch tubes, and before cutting a group of pines. Fast action matters, and removal near buildings and lines is work for a trained, insured crew.

Not sure who to call? Read how to hire a tree service or check is my tree dangerous?

Trees it affects

Usually seen on: Loblolly pine, Slash pine, Virginia pine, Eastern white pine, Other southern yellow pines.

See all species in our tree library, or pick a tougher tree with the tree picker.

For tree companies

How to explain southern pine beetle to a customer

Explain the difference between one stressed pine and a spreading beetle spot. Be honest that some trees cannot be saved, and tell owners about thinning and care for the rest. Avoid pressure; give a clear plan and a written quote.

Send this page to the customer after your visit so they can read the signs in plain words. See also selling plant health care and the job photo checklist.

Questions

What does southern pine beetle do?

The beetle bores under the bark of pines and cuts off the tree's food and water flow. The tree's needles fade as it dies.

How do I spot an attack?

Look for pitch tubes on the trunk, boring dust, S-shaped tunnels under the bark, and needles turning yellow to red to brown.

Which pines are most at risk?

Many southern pines can be attacked. Stressed pines, crowded stands and trees hurt by drought or storms are at higher risk.

Can an attacked tree be saved?

Usually not once many beetles are in the trunk. Removing infested trees quickly may help protect nearby pines. Ask a forester.

Should I cut the surrounding pines too?

Not always. Foresters often advise a buffer in some situations. Ask your state forestry agency about your site.

Does it attack trees in my yard?

It can attack pines in yards, especially stressed ones. Keep trees watered in dry spells and avoid root damage.

Can Lirevon diagnose southern pine beetle on my tree?

No. Lirevon is a remote marketing team for tree service companies and does not do tree work. This page is general information, not a diagnosis. A certified arborist or your county extension office can confirm what is wrong with your tree.

How do I find a good local pro for this?

Search Google Maps for certified arborists or tree services near you, read their reviews and ask for proof of insurance. Get two or three written quotes. Our guide on how to hire a tree service lists the questions to ask.

When customers spot southern pine beetle, they call

Make sure someone answers. Missed-call text-back, lead follow-up, booking and review requests, set up for you. See our services and pricing.

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