This insect is part of the western forest ecosystem, playing a role in thinning weak trees in a stand.

The larvae are small, legless, the size of grains of rice, and white.

Visible evidence of infestation includes patches of orange to reddish-brown boring dust in the bark or at the base of the tree.

Resin streamers from attacks higher in the tree may also be present.

Inside the bark, 6 to 30 inch egg galleries run parallel with the grain.