They are common throughout the south but damage is not as extensive as southern pine beetle outbreaks. Different species of Ips prefer the upper, lower or middle portions of the tree. Ips beetles attack the major pine species grown in the South. When trees are stressed the populations may grow large and kill a large number of trees. Frequently found in trees damaged by human activity or lightning, especially those stressed by drought, fire and thinning.
Initial attacks are usually within two feet of the ground.
Ips - first recognized sign of attack is yellowing or reddening of needles in tree crowns. Generally, by the time this is seen the beetle has completed its development and moved on to other trees. The male attacks the tree first and constructs mating chambers. After mating the female lays the eggs small galleries radiating out from the chamber. This boring grooves the surface of the sapwood, parallel with the grain.