Overview
- Experts report a mass flight in the Hessisches Ried with roughly half a billion beetles expected by early May, while about 3.2 million are projected over the next two to three weeks near Iffezheim.
- Foresters say this is the heavy root‑damage year for the Südstamm because grubs are feeding below the surface and killing many young trees.
- Researchers describe regional beetle populations that rise on staggered four‑year rhythms, and they expect the larger Südstamm between Rastatt and Bruchsal to bring an even bigger event next year.
- Warmer springs and drained, dry soils create ideal conditions for the insects and can cut development from four to three years, which can stack generations and boost numbers.
- Control options are scant, with no approved pesticides, helicopter spraying banned, and fungus trials showing little effect, leaving managers with few practical tools.