Sirex woodwasp (Sirex noctilio) is native to Europe, Asia, and northern Africa. They primarily attack living pines whereas native woodwasps attack dead and dying trees. In October, the New Hampshire Department of Agriculture trapped and confirmed the sirex woodwasp in roadside traps in Greenfield and Keene. It has not been detected in trees in New Hampshire.
Awareness of the symptoms and signs of a sirex woodwasp infestation increases the chance of early detection, and thus, the rapid response needed to contain and manage this exotic forest pest.
Sirex noctilio—adult female (Photo-USDA Forest Service)
More About Sirex Woodwasp
US Forest Service Pest Alert
Massachusetts Introduced Pests Outreach Project