An aerial tree inspection is a must for every large tree. Looking from the ground this tree below looked quite healthy and structurally sound.

This tree has some major defects at 30 metres up in the canopy, that could never be seen from the ground.

This tree is located in the backyard of a residential home, where children play underneath the tree each day. This inspection was initially prompted by a branch failure. Had children been under the tree at the time of failure, it could have been catastrophic.

Some of the damage to the subject trees below was due to parrots, namely Australian Cockatoos. Cockatoos love to chew on the bark at the unions of branches. Their incessant chewing can remove supportive tension wood growth on the upper side of the branch which holds the branch up. It also creates pockets where water can pool and rot can develop.

The results of the inspection recommended that some of the defective parts of the tree be removed and remaining heavy lateral limbs pruned to reduce end weight. This has turned out to be a win-win situation for the tree owner and the tree, with the tree being retained and the family still able to enjoy all the benefits that the tree provides.

An aerial inspection should be undertaken by a suitably experienced and qualified arborist at least every few years or directly after severe weather events such as heavy wind, rain, hail, snow or lightening strikes.