Bark beetles are destructive pests that can cause serious damage to trees by tunneling beneath the bark and disrupting the tree's ability to transport water and nutrients. If left untreated, an infestation can weaken or kill a tree and may spread to nearby trees on your property. Early detection is critical for improving the chances of saving an affected tree. At Tree Doctor 911, our local arborists provide tree health services in the greater Albuquerque and Sante Fe areas, and our team can identify and address bark beetle infestations. Here are five warning signs that a bark beetle infestation may be present and it's time to contact an arborist.

Small Holes in the Bark

One of the earliest signs of bark beetle activity is the appearance of tiny holes in the tree's bark. These holes are created when adult beetles bore into the tree. While they may be difficult to spot from a distance, close inspection often reveals numerous small entry points scattered across the trunk.

Sawdust-Like Material Around the Tree

Bark beetles often produce fine sawdust, sometimes referred to as frass, as they tunnel beneath the bark. This material may accumulate in bark crevices. The presence of unusual sawdust around a tree is often a strong indication of insect activity.

Discolored or Dying Foliage

As bark beetles damage the tree's internal transport system, the canopy may begin to suffer. Needles or leaves may turn yellow, reddish-brown, or otherwise discolored. Sections of the canopy may also appear thin or die back entirely as the infestation progresses.

Peeling/Falling Bark

Infested trees may develop loose, cracked, or peeling bark. In some cases, sections of bark may fall away completely, exposing tunnels created by beetles beneath the surface. Visible bark damage is often a sign that the infestation has become more advanced.

Increased Woodpecker Activity

Woodpeckers often feed on bark beetles and their larvae. If you notice woodpeckers repeatedly pecking at a particular tree, it may indicate the presence of an insect infestation. 

Tree Care in Santa Fe and Albuquerque, NM

For expert tree health services in Santa Fe and Albuquerque, contact Tree Doctor 911 at 505-461-0163. Feel free to give us a call to ask for a tree services estimate in New Mexico!