Parts of the famous Joshua Tree National Park are closed to visitors because of bees. Photo: Unsplash

Parts of Joshua Tree National Park have been closed due to swarms of bees.

In late August, park officials announced via social media the temporary closure, which affects the Cottonwood Visitor Center, parking lot, restrooms and campground.

Reports say the bees were attracted to the area in search of water. It’s not unusual for bee numbers in the area to increase as the weather gets warmer, but this year there are more bees buzzing around than usual. It’s not just lakes and rivers that attract the bees, though.

“During the summer, water becomes scarce and bees seek out water sources, just like our other park animals,” park officials said in a post. “However, this can also include condensation from air conditioning units, visitor sweat and bathrooms.”

The closures will (hopefully) reduce the amount of water available to the bees and give the bees time to find other sources outside the park.

At the time of writing, it is not yet clear when the closed areas can be reopened. According to the park, “it depends on bee activity, but may take about a week.”