Forest pests and pathogens including spongy moth (Lymantria dispar), southern pine beetle, chestnut blight, and pine looper are expected to benefit from warmer and drier conditions in coastal oak-pine hardwoods.

Studies suggest that insect pests may increase due to increased metabolic activity in active periods and increased winter survival. Insect pests, such as spongy moth (Lymantria dispar) and southern pine beetle are expected to cause more frequent and severe damage under climate change, and new pests present unknown risks. Trees stressed by heat, drought, or disturbance are also typically more vulnerable to insect pests and diseases.