Holes in young silver birch trees

davidwederell888

Hi,

I have noticed holes that almost look like rot (but suspect something kind of beetle) in my silver birch trees. One in a pot (has been for a long time) and one that has recently been planted into a raised bed after spending many years in a small pot. 

I am worried that these holes will kill the trees as they are invasive and will have weakened the trunks. 

Any ideas?

Many thanks 

David 

davidwederell888

Just an update on this, some one has suggested that it could be a moth caterpillar? 

BobTheGardener

Any chance of a photo?

davidwederell888

BobTheGardener

If there is sawdust-like frass at the bottom of the hole or on the ground below, it is likely a borer (beetle larva) as you suspect. There are some notifiable borers on the government site which may (or may not!) help:

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/identify-a-tree-pest-or-disease-overview