Published on Thursday, 31 October 2024 at 8:00:00 AM

The European House Borer (EHB), Hylotrupes bajulus, is a destructive pest that poses a threat to dried wood from conifer trees (including pine, fir, and spruce). If left unchecked, EHB can cause major structural damage to buildings.

 This pest is active in Western Australia, with parts of the Town of Bassendean falling within a Restricted Movement Zone (RMZ).

 EHB larvae can live in timber for 2 to 12 years, causing damage before emerging as adult beetles. To combat this, movement restrictions on untreated pinewood have been in place since 2006 to prevent the spread of EHB.

The Town of Bassendean has implemented a proactive program to remove dead wood from susceptible tree species on Town land to remove sites that have the potential to become infested. This work is conducted annually during the summer months.

Residents are urged to remain vigilant and adhere to movement restrictions of untreated pinewood within RMZ areas. More information can be found in the video below and on the Department of Agriculture and Food website.

While the European House Borer (EHB), Hylotrupes bajulus, poses a significant threat to coniferous timber, it is important to note that EHB is distinct from the Polyphagous shot-hole borer (PSHB). Each pest requires specific control measures. For more information about PSHB containment efforts, visit Polyphagous shot-hole borer | Agriculture and Food.

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