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Climate linked with bark beetle outbreaks

An increase in mountain pine beetle outbreaks in North America has been linked with climate change.

A study of the number of trees killed by bark beetles in Oregon and Washington over 30 years suggests climate is having a significant impact on beetle activity.

Warmer winter temperatures and drought stress on trees are among the factors influencing larger outbreaks.

Scientists looked at beetle activity over a greater time period and scale than previously studied.

Read more at US Forest Service and University of Idaho

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