Goldspotted Oak Borer

GSOB (Goldspotted Oak Borers) are invasive beetles that tunnel into oak trees, causing them to die. Recently, they have been found in areas of northern Los Angeles County, and pose a threat to our oak woodlands. We are conducting surveys to monitor the spread and inform early actions. Naturally the beetles do not travel far before infesting other oak trees, however humans inadvertently transport the pest as larvae via the transport of firewood. The insects then emerge from the wood and bore into nearby live trees. For this reason, the best thing you can do is “Buy it where you burn it” to help prevent the spread.