European House Borer in Western Australia: Standing Trees vs. Timber Risk

Perth hills infestation of Hylotrupes bajulus (European House Borer). Authority proposes destroying 2–5 million pines, including 25 heritage trees >100 years old. Village seeks evidence for alternative management.

Critical Distinction

EHB attacks seasoned, untreated timber—not living trees. Larvae develop in dead wood (logs, lumber, furniture). Standing pines are not reservoirs for house infestation unless cut and used untreated.

Flawed Eradication Logic

Killing all pines ≠ eliminating EHB. Borers arrive via imported wood products. Analogy: killing all dogs to prevent fleas, ignoring new pets. Effective strategy: treat lumber, not trees.

Heritage Tree Management

• Prune deadwood (entry points).
• Spray trunks with registered borer insecticide (costly, needs lift for large trees).
• Paint cuts with borate-based preservative (more effective than pruning paint).
• Engage WA Department of Agriculture (1-800-084-881, ehb.wa.gov.au) for dialogue.

Standing live pines are not the threat. Policy should target wood treatment, not tree destruction.