A to Z of Pests

Bark Borer

Ernobius mollis

Appearance

• Adult – 3–6mm. Red or chestnut brown with yellow silky hairs on body.

Lifecycle

• Female lays 20-30 eggs in bark crevices which hatch into larvae in two to three weeks.
• Pupation follows in spring or early summer, lasting one or two weeks.
• Adults emerge between May and August.

Habits

• Damage confined to unbarked softwoods, causing no structural damage. Occurs on pergolas, rustic work, fence posts and garden sheds.