Insects and Spiders - native

Lilac borer (Podosesia syringae) on Apr 2, 2024

Originally reported as Ash Bark Beetles (Hylesinus spp.)

Submitter has sample

Description of specimen

Powdery wood residue around galleries. Some fuzzy white matter. On old lilac branch

Commentary

This appears to be caused by the Lilac borer, a native species that is a common pest of lilacs across North America. It is clearwing moth and adults resemble a wasp in appearance. There are some control strategies you can take which include pruning and chemical controls. Here are some links:

https://agsci.colostate.edu/agbio/ipm-pests/lilac-borer/

https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/gardens-gardening/your-garden/help-for-the-home-gardener/advice-tips-resources/insects-pests-and-problems/insects/caterpillars/lilac-borer-and-ash-borer

Wyatt Williams
April 3, 2024, 1:51 a.m.