Invasive Insects

Be on the lookout for a new pest of boxwoods. Box tree moth caterpillars chew the leaves of boxwood plants and can cause complete defoliation. Boxwoods are their only host plant. This pest has been found in several US states, and was first detected in Maryland in July 2025. If you find it, please report it to us.

In this issue: With warmer weather comes a reminder to stay vigilant about woodland threats, and a look at the importance of pollen. There's an assessment of ghost forests in the region, plus a roundup of news you might have missed. Read about the pawpaw in our "Native Trees of Maryland" feature and about glossy buckthorn in our "Invasives in Your Woodland" feature. And more!

Enjoy the warm weather, but continue to stay on the lookout for woodland threats.

The News and Notes roundup for this issue: Asks, "Should you squish a spotted lanternfly?"; notes that grants for forestry projects and protection are open in Anne Arundel County; describes how researchers are using drones and AI to map forests; reports on a new story map that documents saltwater intrusion in the Delmarva; and shares one way to stay warm this winter... with just one log. 

Euonymus leaf notcher is an invasive insect and pest of ornamental euonymus plants.

Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is an exotic invasive insect that is a serious threat to Maryland ash trees. It has killed many millions of ash trees across the Mid-West and Eastern U.S.

Viburnum leaf beetle (Pyrrhalta viburni) is an introduced pest of viburnum in North America.

The Sirex woodwasp (SWW) is an exotic, invasive pest considered to be one of the top 10 most serious forest insect pests worldwide.

Kudzu bug is an invasive insect that has also been found in Maryland on the Eastern shore, in southern and central Maryland.