Expert: Dr Stephen Vann - 8/4/2009

Question
Hello,
I need to identify this insect that keeps burrowing into my aspen trees leaving behind holes in the bark. They look like thrips but have an antanae looking fork on their tail. They are more slender than the thrips and are all over my yard, under pieces of scattered lumber. I want to identify it so I can get the proper treatment. Thanks.

Answer
Waleska:

Best to collect a few of these "critters" in a jar or bottle and drop in to your local garden center or nursery for an ID to see if they are harming your tree OR are they just there using the area as a safe haven.  Meanwhile, take a look on "Google" Images for a photo of earwigs.  These insects have pinchers on their rear end- sounds a bit like what you describe.

Regards
Steve