symetrical series of holes in white pine - Ask Extension
Hi - we have close to a hundred white pine on our property. This particular pine is bordered by brush whereas others are in more grassy open areas. ...
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symetrical series of holes in white pine #868456
Asked May 14, 2024, 6:39 PM EDT
Hi - we have close to a hundred white pine on our property. This particular pine is bordered by brush whereas others are in more grassy open areas. I just noticed the holes this spring. The tree otherwise looks healthy with new growth. Any suggestions as to what's causing it and what to do about it?
Thanks!
Sherburne County Minnesota
Expert Response
Those are holes made by a sapsucker. The birds drill the holes to make sap flow down the trunk and trap insects that they eat. The holes rarely harm the tree. Hanging mylar tape or something shiny in the branches or down the trunk can scare them away.
