Forestry Commission - Invasive Spruce Bark Beetle Awareness

Published: 18 February 2025

Officers at the Forestry Commission are working on the eradication response to the eight-toothed spruce bark beetle, Ips typographus, which is an invasive and regulated pest in England.

Ips typographus targets weakened or damaged spruce trees, and storm events as experienced this winter can create ideal habitat. It is being blown over from outbreaks in Europe and, if left unchecked, it could potentially build in numbers and would be devastating to the country’s timber industry. Proactive management of spruce to remove potential habitat and risk of infestation is suggested

The Forestry Commission is getting in touch with parish, town, and other community councils across the southeast, with the aim of increasing awareness of this issue at the local level. Below you will find an information flyer that gives more information about their work.