Michigan’s Tree Safety Alert: Be on the Lookout for This Invasive Beetle

Have you looked at your tree recently? The Michigan Department of Natural Resources wants to know.

Invasive Bugs in Michigan

Specifically, the Michigan DNR is asking for your help in keeping an eye out for a particular species of invasive insect: the Asian longhorned beetle.

This time every year, the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service declares August as 'Tree Check Month'. That's because it's typically this time of year that we would see this particular beetle and the damage it causes to trees.

The Asian longhorned beetle hails from Asia and is an invasive species in North America. Currently, it's found in states like Ohio, Massachusetts, and New York.

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Thankfully, it hasn't been spotted in Michigan... yet. That's why the DNR wants your help in keeping an eye out for them.

How You Can Help: Reporting and Preserving

Asian longhorned beetles really like maples and other types of hard wood. They reek devastation on native trees and once that happens, significant tree removal needs to happen.

Here's what you're looking out for:

• A shiny, black body
• Irregular white spots
• Black-and-white banded antennae, approximately 1.5 inches
• Body is approximately 0.75 to 1 inch in length

What Should You Do if You See an Asian Longhorned Beetle in Michigan?

If you spot one of these beetles, the Michigan DNR asks that you note the location, take a picture of the beetle and/or tree damage, and then collect the beetle in a container and freeze it for preservation. Of course, make a report of your findings too.

Keep an eye out to keep Michigan trees safe!

Here's a video with a bit more detail.