Damage consists mainly of weakened branches that break off during heavy winds. Attack for several years could cause the death of branches, limbs, or entire trees. Cottonwood borer makes this size of hole in cottonwood and other poplars, but it is uncommon in Illinois. The shallow egg-laying holes made by the females are similar to those made by woodpeckers searching for insect larvae in or under the bark. However, these beetles make round holes that are similar in diameter whereas woodpeckers tend to make jagged holes of various sizes.
Control is difficult due to the extended adult emergence period.
Insecticide treatment would involve several applications, is not practical and may not be very effective. This beetle is eliminated in infested areas by cutting down all infested trees and chipping or burning them. Areas where the beetle is found are placed under quarantine that prohibits the movement of host species firewood, logs, green lumber, stumps, roots, branches, and debris of one-half inch or more in thickness out of the area. Follow these links for additional photos or a video of the Asian Longhorned Beetle. Visit Cornell University's site on the Asian Longhorned Beetle.