Pitch moth

You will see resinous pitch tubes exuding from Douglas-fir trunks where moth larvae tunnel beneath bark. Pitch accumulates as gummy masses at gallery entrances. Larvae are white to yellow and create extensive galleries in the phloem. Multiple pitch tubes on a tree indicate active infestation. Infested areas appear darkened and may ooze pitch continuously.

Remove affected branches when larvae are present and bark is obviously damaged. Monitor tree health; stressed or weakened trees are more attractive to pitch moth. Avoid wounding bark with equipment. Prune dead wood promptly to reduce egg-laying sites. No effective chemical control exists for established galleries. Maintain tree vigor through proper care and irrigation.