Gall-making insects + squirrels on Aug 2, 2025

Originally reported as Mediterranean Oak Borer (Xyleborus monographus)

Submitter does not have a specimen

Description of specimen

I believe it is Mediterranean oak borer in an a very old Oregon white oak with old storm damage and soil compaction due to a dirt bike track. It is in the back of a field adjacent to a creek that flows in the winter. The dying canopy will be obvious when looking to the east from SW Mountain road.

Commentary

Hi Brian, thanks for the report. Storm damage and root compaction alone are enough for oak decline but that can reduce resilience to MOB as well. I am checking trees over the next couple of weeks and will add this tree to my list.

Christine Buhl
Aug. 4, 2025, 1:11 a.m.

Hi Brian I was able to investigate and there was no evidence of MOB but there is some twig branch dieback from gall-making insects + squirrels digging at grubs (see peeled bark below dead leaves in image). Looks unsightly but will not kill the tree. More info on these pests here: https://www.oregon.gov/odf/Documents/forestbenefits/oak-pests.pdf

Christine Buhl
Aug. 6, 2025, 7:38 a.m.