Jul 9, 2009 10:12 pm US/Eastern
Beetles Strangle Cape Cod Pine Trees
SANDWICH (WBZ) ―
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The black turpentine beetle feeds on the inner bark and eventually strangle the trees' internal water supply
WBZ
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Experts are not yet calling it an epidemic, but it's being watched closely as the attacks are increasing.
WBZ
The Pitch Pine is part of the Cape Cod landscape. But take a closer look in some areas and it appears the tree has been slimed. It's the calling card of the black turpentine beetle, a nearly one-inch critter that's essentially oozing bug poop resembling wads of gum.
"It's the trees' response to the critters once they get in, it's trying to push them out," says Barnstable county entomologist Dave Simser.
It's a growing infestation of the trees that could slowly change the landscape as the pines die out. The beetle burrows into the soft bark and lays eggs, which hatch into grubs. They feed on the inner bark and eventually strangle the trees' internal water supply.
"Ultimately in this area of Sandwich, 10 to 15 to 20 years, there won't be too many pines," said Simser.
In Hal Beckerdite's Yarmouth yard, eight of his pine trees will have to be cut down as the beetle has invaded in growing numbers.
"You lose one or two sometimes, but this year they've clustered more," he said.
Unfortunately, these trees are starting to age out on the Cape. Their weakened bark is more vulnerable to the beetle's voracious appetite.
Bob Paulding of Eager Beaver Tree Service says with the munchfest under way, his tree removal service is busier than ever.
"For me it's an economic stimulus program. It's one-third of my business now."
The problem appears to be more prevalent on the Upper Cape. Afflicted trees can be treated if homeowners don't mind pesticides.
Experts are not yet calling it an epidemic, but it's being watched closely as the attacks are increasing.
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