DEC’s Forest Health crew in region 8 assisted the New York State Hemlock Initiative in releasing 2,042 Laricobius nigrinus at Rattlesnake Hill Wildlife Management Area Oct. 23. Laricobius nigrinus, a species of beetle affectionately nicknamed “Little Lari,” is a biological control predator of the invasive Hemlock Wooly Adelgid (HWA).
Prior to their release, these predators underwent thorough laboratory testing to verify that they are highly unlikely to pose a threat to our environment.
DEC scientists are hopeful that the beetles will successfully settle into their new home and begin to protect our hemlocks by feasting on HWA.