According to the National Christmas Tree Association, 33 million real Christmas trees are sold in the United States every year. But did you know, there could be up to 25,000 Christmas tree pests in one tree alone? So, you've picked the perfect freshly-cut tree and brought it inside your warm home for the holidays. Unknowingly, you may have just invited hundreds of hibernating bugs inside of your home, as well. Most Christmas tree pests are actually microscopic and not dangerous, but there are some ways to know if they are present.

Here are the top 5 most common Christmas tree pests found lurking inside of your home:

1. Spiders & Mites

Since many people have a fear of spiders and bugs, seeing them on your Christmas tree might not be the most comforting sight. Quick Tips: check for egg sacs throughout the branches to avoid freshly hatched spiders in your house. Keep an eye out for needle loss on your tree and red stains, which are recognized signs of mites.

2. Aphids

Aphids are generally found in the lower branches of your Christmas tree. While they are harmless, they can still give some homeowners a fright. FYI, they can leave a purple/reddish stain behind when squashed on carpets or furniture.

3. Sawfly

The sawfly is usually found lurking around spruce and pine trees and is the less common of the bunch. The first sign of a sawfly infestation is brown-colored cocoons. Which will eventually hatch into black and yellow flies.

4. Praying Mantises

Praying mantises found on your Christmas tree start as an egg mass that contains up to about 400 eggs. After a few weeks indoors, those eggs will eventually hatch. Though widely rumored, it is actually not illegal to kill a praying mantis. In some cultures, however, it is bad luck..so, these harmless pests should be captured and set free.

5. Bark Beetles

Bark beetles are brown or black-colored beetles that are typically the size of a small grain of rice. Signs of a bark beetle infestation include holes in the branches or trunk and sawdust on your floor.  

Enjoy A Pest-Free Holiday Season This Year

Pests like rodents, cockroaches, and spiders seek shelter from the cold weather in the winter months. If your home is not prepared for winter pests, you will more than likely come across some unwanted visitors. No matter the time of year, GGA Pest Management offers year-round, seasonal pest control to keep the pests away all year long. Get a free inspection or call us at 254-666-3439 for more information on our quarterly pest control plans.