Destructive Beetle On Its Way

Destructive Beetle On Its Way

Tuesday, April 26, 2011 at 14:58

The mountain pine beetle continues its march towards Saskatchewan.

However, an insect specialist in Prince Albert says there is no sign of the beetle in our province, yet.

Earlier this month scientists said they had discovered that the insect could leap from lodgepole pine trees onto Jack pine.

The news was greeted with worry, as much of the boreal forest is composed of Jack pine.

Dr. Rory McIntosh says so far the furthest the beetle has travelled into Alberta is southwest of the Primrose Lake Air Weapons Range, as well as near Lac La Biche and Fort McMurray.

He adds they will be keeping a close eye to see whether or not the beetle crosses the border.

He adds the beetle is “about the same size as a Rice Krispie” and can often be spotted in tree sap at the base of the tree.