Bugs we Love (to Hate):

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This critter appears to be a ponderosa pine resin midge or the gouty pitch midge, Cecidomyia piniiopsis - its a little on the large size but I haven't seen them at this time of year before. They're often found in larger groups but not necessarily. Probably by this time of year there has been some population reduction. If that's what they are they should over winter within pitch pockets on the bark of twigs. The samples I've found in the woods have been pretty insignificant as far as causing damage to the trees. May be more of a problem in a landscape tree if natural enemies are less abundant. Heavy attacks are reported to cause stunting and twisting of growth and dieback of needles and terminals. Young trees are more susceptible to attack.