Large Pine Weevil

The pine weevil (Hylobius abietis) is one of the most damaging pests in European forestry, particularly in conifer reforestation zones. First documented in the 18th century, its presence has steadily grown with large-scale logging and tree planting operations. After clear-cutting, pine weevils are drawn to freshly planted young trees, where they feed on the bark and stem, often killing the saplings before they can establish. Over the decades, this pest has caused major economic and ecological setbacks across Scandinavia, Central Europe, and parts of the UK.

WeevilWipeout is expanding its research to address the pine weevil crisis with the same organic, high-impact approach used against red palm weevils. By developing a tailored formulation and delivery method, we aim to protect young conifers without the use of toxic chemicals. Our goal is to offer a cost-effective, environmentally safe treatment that prevents damage during the critical early years of forest regeneration.

Current chemical controls for pine weevils are limited, environmentally harmful, or increasingly restricted by regulation. WeevilWipeout's organic solution—once validated through ongoing research—could offer forest managers a breakthrough: a non-toxic, field-deployable method that reduces seedling loss, improves planting success rates, and aligns with rewilding and biodiversity goals.