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What bug is eating my shrubs? #719122

Asked August 30, 2020, 2:18 PM EDT

Hi, hoping you can help me identify the bug that is eating my shrubs. It eats around the edges of leaves of multiple shrubs, leaving a scalloped pattern. I can never find the offending critter. The attached pictures are of my lilac bush, which also shows excrement on the underside, a red barberry bush, and another unknown bush in my yard which seems to be a favorite.

Deschutes County Oregon

Expert Response

Thank you for your question about what insect is eating your plants. From your photos and description of the damage, I believe the insect is a root weevil. The adults feed on the leaves at night, which is why you are not seeing them. Following is source that provides a description and management methods for root weevils: https://pnwhandbooks.org/insect/hort/landscape/common/landscape-root-weevil

The Deschutes County OSU Extension website provides more information about common insects found here in Central Oregon:   https://extension.oregonstate.edu/gallery/common-insects-found-urban-landscapes-central-oregon

If you need additional information, I encourage you to call the Deschutes County OSU Extension office in Redmond at<personal data hidden>. You can ask to speak with Amy Jo Detweiler or Toni Stephan, members of the Horticulture Staff. Both Amy Jo and Toni welcome your home garden questions and are happy to talk with you.

Susan P., OSU Master Gardener Volunteer Replied August 31, 2020, 7:36 PM EDT

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