Without an exception to the rule, the number of infestations from southern pine bark beetles generally increases at the end of the summer. The number of infestations basically depends on the environmental conditions of the recent months and the current population level of the beetle.

Last year, Alabama had a late spring to early summer drought that resulted in numerous beetle spots by October. The southwestern part of the state received the most pine damage, with some counties having as many as 300 spots. Of the 3 main southern pine bark beetles, the Ips engraver beetle (IEB) was the primary cause of these infestations, taking full advantage of the unfavorable environmental conditions of the area.

Not as extreme, but this year Alabama noticed an increase in bark beetle attack starting in June. The numbers of infestations increased by September and continued throughout October, but not nearly the number of spots reported in 2010. Most of these infestations were once again caused by the Ips engraver beetle. There were, however, some black turpentine and southern pine beetle spots increasing during this pivotal time of the year. Instead of a drought being the environmental factor to influence the attack, this year it was the April tornadoes. Damaged roots and broken limbs of pines may have caused many of the reported beetle spots. Especially in storm-ravaged areas, there were a significant number of beetle infestations.

Attack from southern pine bark beetles may continue to increase in these areas until the first frost. The overall population of the southern pine beetle (SPB), however, is relatively low, corresponding with the results from the 2011 Southern Pine Beetle Pheromone Survey. Just like the last few years, Alabama is still experiencing a low southern pine beetle population resulting in few infestations statewide. 

SPB Biology and Prevention | Control | Ips Bark Beetle