Insects and Pests
Borers
Flathead borers are common to the United States and have been noted in Arlington. More than 150 varieties of flathead borers feed on a wide range of trees, including oak, sycamore, walnut, poplar, elm beech, hickory, cherry and others. Most borers attack trees that are already suffering from some kind of stress, although some do attack healthy trees. Currently, Emerald Ash Borer is the most aggressive forest pest in our County, but it only affects ash trees.
Emerald Ash Borer
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Spotted Lanternfly
Virginia Cooperative Extension has been monitoring the arrival of this invasive pest in our region, and there are many resources available for reporting sightings and management of this beautiful but terrible pest:
Spotted Lanternfly (mgnv.org)
Spotted Lantern Fly | Arlington County | Virginia Tech (vt.edu)
Gypsy Moths
The mid-Atlantic is currently experiencing an increase in gypsy moths, resulting in significant tree damage. Gypsy moth eggs are laid from late July through August. They are tan to buff in color, oval in shape and typically 1-3 inches in length, covered with fine hairs. They are usually found on tree bark or on the undersides of branches, although the female will lay eggs in any protected location that a caterpillar can crawl. Check for eggs regularly on outdoor equipment, woodpiles, yard ornaments, planters, trailers, campers and vehicles, as well as under house shutters.
Gypsy Moth
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