How do I identify bark beetles?

In bark: Look for reddish-brown pitch tubes. These ½-¾ inch blobs of sap on the outside of a tree trunk are a sign that bark beetles successfully attacked the tree. Leaves/needles: Needles on dying conifer trees and pines begin to turn a reddish-brown and often start changing color at the top of the tree. The color change gradually moves down the tree. Other trees may slowly fade from green to brown.

Outside of tree: Flaking bark, or holes in the bark caused by woodpeckers, are good indicators that bark beetles or other insects are present.