Data from 1999 and 2000 field studies regarding the dispersal flight and initial attack behavior of the spruce beetle (Dendroctonus rufipennis Kirby) are summarized. More dispersing beetles were trapped in flight near the middle to upper tree bole than the lower bole. There were no significant differences between trap location and ambient temperatures. Initial attacks, however, were concentrated on the lower tree bole. Dispersal flight preceded initial attacks by 1 to 2 weeks.