I am going to stick my neck out a little and say I have a maple tree. I'm reasonably sure based on the buds and overall shape of the tree. If I'm wrong forgive my ignorance; I'm here to learn. So, here goes...

My wife and I just bought our first house, complete with a rather large maple tree that may be in need of serious help (or removal). It is ~50 feet tall and ~2.5 feet at the base It doesn't appear dead, though it does seem to be behind all the other trees blooming.

What drew my attention and concern was when I threw a tennis ball for my dog and it hit the tree trunk near the base. The sound it made was rather hollow. Turns out behind the bark appeared to have significant damage from rot or infestation. As I scraped a little at the rotted area I could see worms - they looked a little like small meal worms - disappearing deeper into the tree.

Nearly all the bark at the base of the tree had some level of erosion behind it.

Below is a link to my flickr account. Pictures of the tree can be found under the "new house" set.

I appreciate any advice. You can respond to this post or leave comments on the photos.

http://flickr.com/photos/8124977@N08/sets/72157600162385500/

Matt Fitzgerald