ANNOUNCER (:13): AUGUST IS “TREE CHECK MONTH” AND THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE IS ASKING EVERYONE TO EXAMINE THEIR TREES AND REPORT ANY SIGNS OF THE INVASIVE PEST, THE ASIAN LONGHORNED BEETLE. RHONDA SANTOS WITH THE USDA, SHARES MORE…

SUGGESTED SOUNDBITE (:13): Now is the time to look for and report signs of the Asian longhorned beetle. If you’re taking a walk, take a look around at the trees. This wood-boring beetle attacks many types of trees and is a threat to our recreational areas, our shade trees and forests.

ANNOUNCER (:07): THIS “HUNGRY PEST” HAS DISTINCT MARKINGS AND WILL LEAVE BEHIND PENCIL-SIZE HOLES AND OTHER SIGNS IN TREES THAT SHOULD BE REPORTED

SUGGESTED SOUNDBITE (:20): The beetle is easy to recognize with their black and white antennae, shiny black body with white spots and six legs. Beetles create round holes and scars in the tree bark. You may even see sawdust-like material around the tree, and dead or fallen branches. If you see any of these signs, take photos and capture the suspicious insects to help the USDA with identification.

ANNOUNCER (:06): TO LEARN MORE OR REPORT, VISIT ASIAN LONGHORNED BEETLE DOT COM. THAT’S ASIAN LONGHORNED BEETLE DOT COM.