CSU Extension Natural controls of mountain pine beetle include woodpeckers and insects such as clerid beetles that feed on mountain pine beetle adults and larvae under bark. Extreme cold temperatures also can reduce MPB populations. However, during outbreaks these natural controls often fail to prevent additional attacks. Perhaps the most important natural control is tree vigor.
Healthy trees are less attractive to beetles than trees under stress.
Cultural controls that promote tree health and spacing are the primary means to prevent MPB outbreaks. The best long-term means to minimize MPB losses is to thin trees. Consult a professional forester to select the best cultural practices for your land. Logs infested with MPB can be treated in various ways to kill developing beetles before they emerge as adults in summer. Logs may be burned to kill the larvae under bark.