VAIL, Colo., Aug. 27 (UPI) -- An unprecedented infestation of tiny beetles is plaguing Colorado's pine trees as well as trees in Utah, Wyoming, Idaho and Montana.
The infestation is having a detrimental effect on the picturesque, mountainous landscape and may begin to affect tourism in the area, The Los Angeles Times reported.
The tremendous swarm of mountain pine beetles -- which are about the size of a grain of rice -- is said to come into cycle about every 20 years. However, experts say this year has been by far the largest and hungriest swarm on record.
The pests are reportedly spreading into higher altitudes and attacking smaller trees in addition to their usual targets, medium sized trees.
The female beetles burrow into a tree where they hatch larvae. When the larvae hatch, they cut through the tree, ravaging it.
Although the infestation may have detrimental affects on tourism in and around Yellowstone National Park, as well as other areas, experts say nothing can be done about nature running its course.
