Insects and Spiders - native

orchard mason bee (Osmia sp.) on May 7, 2025

Originally reported as Emerald Ash Borer (Agrilus planipennis)

Submitter does not have a specimen

Description of specimen

See photo. Noticed it boring into a support. Took a photo as I watched it pushing saw dust out. Google lens said it was emerald ash borer.

Commentary

Thank you for your report! No, it isn't an Emerald ash borer. It looks like an orchard mason bee (Osmia sp.). EAB does not bore in structural wood, it only attacks live ash trees, and the exit holes are D-shaped, not oval as in this photo. Thanks for being on the lookout!

Tom Valente
May 8, 2025, 11 a.m.

Location

Boring into telephone pole supports for covering at Creslane Elementary.

Expert Reviewer

Tom Valente
Oregon Department of Agriculture

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