EAB Symptoms

Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is an invasive, ash tree-killing insect easily moved through firewood, ash logs, ash nursery stock, and parts of an ash tree. For that reason, all Ohioans should monitor their ash trees for signs of the beetle.

The first step in (EAB) detection is determining if you have an ash tree. Once the tree has been properly identified, check ash trees for the following symptoms:

• Distinct, D-shaped exit holes in the bark

• Serpentine-shaped tunnels under the bark on the surface of the wood

• Young sprout growth at the base of the tree

• Unusual activity by woodpeckers

• Thinning canopy of the tree

• Vertical splits in the bark

* Photo Gallery

If your ash tree has three or more symptoms, particularly the D-shaped exit holes in the bark of the tree, contact the Ohio Department of Agriculture at 1-888-OHIO-EAB or report signs here. To submit a specimen, fill out this form and send it along with the sample to the department.

Bear in mind, there are other native borers and diseases that attack ash trees. To help distinguish between EAB and other insects, click here. A pocket-size identification card to help distinguish between EAB and native borers is also available upon request.