Subject: Beetle lava in oak?
Geographic location of the bug: Tarn region, South West France
Date: 10/16/2017
Time: 05:48 AM EDT
I found a lot of my woodpile is being attacked. The bark is eaten away and there are lots of holes in the wood. I split a log and found the bugs inside – they are about half an inch long. They have only attacked the oak, so far, but I am a bit worried in case they attack any other or structural wood and cause damage. Hopefully they are just big beetles, but please identify them if you can. Thanks.
How you want your letter signed: Phil
Dear Phil,
This is a pupa of a Longicorn Beetle in the family Cerambycidae. These beetles will attack weakened trees and freshly cut firewood, but they generally do not infest milled lumber, unless the larvae were developing in the wood when it was cut.
Hi bugman Daniel,
Thanks for your speedy reply and for answering my question. Great service! I think your website is fantastic, with so much info there – you must be really fascinated by all these bugs.