27/06/2026
Exciting developments in detection technology are enhancing our capabilities to help stop the establishment of tree pest Ips typographus, commonly known as the eight-toothed spruce bark beetle.
Forest Research is developing prototype traps that could photograph beetles in real-time, potentially revolutionising early detection. Partners contributing to these efforts include CENSIS and the University of Cambridge.
Detection dogs represent another innovative approach. These specially trained dogs can identify indirect scents of Ips typographus, including beetle frass (excrement or debris left by beetles) and artificial pheromones. They're currently undergoing trials and could significantly improve spruce material movement inspections within the demarcated area (zones where controls are in place).
Drone surveillance adds another layer to our monitoring capabilities, providing highly repeatable datasets to detect changes over time and to identify trees showing symptoms that require investigation.
Read our blog from last autumn to find out more about the collaborative work being done to tackle the eight-toothed spruce bark beetle: https://forestrycommission.blog.gov.uk/2025/11/18/help-beat-the-eight-toothed-spruce-bark-beetle-through-proactive-woodland-management/
Image: Paws For Conservation
