Locust Borer Beetle – 8/31/18

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 8/31/18

Observation Time: 4:00 p.m.

Observation Location: Borderland State Park

Common Name: Locust borer beetle

Scientific Name: Megacyllene robiniae

Comments: The locust borer only attacks black locust trees.  It’s a native insect and was first found in the eastern part of the United States in natural stands of black locust trees.  The locust borer caused problems in colonial times by rendering the durable black locust wood unsuitable for use as fenceposts.  As settlers moved west in the country, they brought black locust trees… and the borer with them.  The borer is now found throughout North America.

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