Seasonal variation in local abundance of adults of the large pine weevil, <i>Hylobius abietis</i> L. (Col., Curculionidae)

Abstract

Abstract The abundance of adult H. abietis was studied over a 6‐month period at a clear‐fell site in Kielder Forest, Northumberland, UK. Numbers varied markedly over the study period, peaking in August. Using enclosure and exclosure techniques it was estimated that most of the beetles captured at the study site emerged from the soil or from the stumps present at the site. Weevil abundance declined from September onwards and by the end of November, no more weevils were trapped, presumably due to movement away to hibernation sites. The implication of these findings for pest management strategies is highlighted.