Western Sculptured Pine Borer

Coniferous forests and areas with many pine trees across Western North America.

Larvae feed on the wood of dead or dying coniferous trees (especially pine and fir); adults may feed on needles and bark.

Diurnal insects often found sunning themselves on logs or tree trunks; females lay eggs in bark crevices of downed trees.

Harmless to humans; they benefit ecosystems by breaking down dead wood, although they are sometimes considered a minor pest in timber operations.