Bark damage to Scots Pine

[Cameronb]

Scots pine in Surrey garden, maybe 70 years old? Suddenly discovered this damage to the bark. It's in a walled garden next to the lane. What can it be? What can we do? Help!! Thanks.

[Excels1or]

Given how far the bark has been scattered I'd say someone's been picking at it. Doesn't seem to be down to the cambium, no harm done.

[openspaceman]

First picture seems to show some exit holes higher up so the damage may be from an animal, maybe badger?, scratching the bark off to get at grubs. It does suggest an underlying problem with the tree.

[Cameronb]

Thanks. Badger or fox both possible. Can we protect it?

[Stere]

Cats scratching post?

 

 

[openspaceman]

  On 18/12/2023 at 09:43, Cameronb said:

Thanks. Badger or fox both possible. Can we protect it?

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I doubt it, tap it lightly with a hammer to see if the sound suggests it is not attached, a hollow sound, around the tree.

[Steve Bullman]

Agree, get a mallet on there and see if it sounds hollow. Might need a proper inspection by an arborist 

[petercb]

Get a reputable arborist to have a look at it. Unfortunately we get similar exit holes in some of our Norway Spruce in our wood. Tree usually dies and is soft at base. Looks very soft where it's come away. Needs looking at asap as may be a hazard.

[Stere]

Tomicus piniperda?