The Southern Pine Beetle (SPB) is a native insect that ordinarily attacks stressed and dying pines. Under certain environmental conditions, however, SPB outbreaks can occur, during which vast acreages of pines in both forests and residential landscapes are mass-attacked and killed. Florida has experienced devastating SPB outbreaks in the recent past. You can help prevent SPB outbreaks and damage by managing your pines so they are vigorous and resistant to attack. See the resources on this page to learn more about SPB and its management. Also, be sure to see the Pine Bark Beetles of Florida page for information about other bark beetles that commonly attack pines in this state.

General Information

• Introduction: Southern Pine Beetle
• Manage Your Forest to Prevent Southern Pine Beetle Damage
• SPB Assistance and Prevention Program
• SPB Featured Creature Site (University of Florida)
• The Southern Pine Beetle [ Adobe PDF Document ] (University of Florida)
• Southern Pine Beetle (FFS Leaflet No. 1) [ 919.7 kB ]

Southern Pine Beetle Activity

• 2026 Florida Southern Pine Beetle Forecast [ 1.8 MB ]
• Contact a County Forester

Identification

• Common Bark Beetle Pests of Florida (University of Florida)

Prevention

• Manage Your Forest To Prevent SPB Damage

Control

• Mechanical Control of SPB Infestations [ Adobe PDF Document ] (USDA)

Information for Florida Forest Service Foresters

• Pheromone Trap Survey Procedures
• SPB Aerial Survey Procedures