By Associated Press
Campbell County, KY – An insect that could pose a serious threat to Kentucky forests is getting uncomfortably close to the state. The Asian longhorned beetle was found near Cincinnati, just across the Ohio River from Campbell County. Kentucky Division of Forestry Director Leah MacSwords says the black beetle with distinctive white spots is among a growing number of exotic, invasive pests that threaten the nation's forests. It measures 1 to 1 1/2 inches long. The beetle, which primarily attacks maple trees, is believed to have arrived in the U.S. in wooden packing material used in cargo shipments from China. It was first detected in 1996. The bugs kill the trees while in the larvae stage by boring into the trunk.