Ivory-marked Borer

Found in hardwood forests and suburban areas with deciduous trees; also known to emerge from finished wood furniture.

Larvae feed on the heartwood of deciduous hardwood trees such as oak, ash, walnut, and hickory. Adults may feed on sap or foliage.

Larvae have an exceptionally slow development cycle, typically 2 years, but they are famous for living inside processed wood for up to 10-40 years before emerging. Adults are nocturnal and attracted to lights.

Harmless to humans; they cannot bite or sting. However, they are a minor nuisance if they emerge from household furniture or flooring, though they do not re-infest seasoned wood.