That Pinecone-Looking Clump in New England Xmas Trees Isn’t a Pinecone

It's time to check those Christmas trees before you buy them.

You're looking for small, brown clumps and lumps that resemble pinecones. Whether you've decorated your tree yet or not, take the time to search. They can easily blend in unless you know what you're looking for.

Those strange, brown clumps are filled with 100 to 200 praying mantis eggs, and the last thing you want is to have that egg sack hatch inside your home during this magical time of year.

There are a couple types of praying mantises in New England, according to the Hitchcock Center, but don't worry. They aren't harmful to humans, according to National Geographic, but rather annoying and gross if you have them all over your home.

According to Taste of Home, it's rare but real, so it's best to examine your tree. Taste of Home says that you don't need to throw out your tree if you didn't check prior to buying it or cutting it down. Instead, you can just cut off that branch if you happen to find a brown clump and set it outside where the eggs can hatch safely.

Or if you're more comfortable, you can call an exterminator just in case some have already hatched.

Even the National Christmas Tree Association says a number of different insects and spiders have been found in Christmas trees after setup, including these praying mantis sacks, so it's always best to investigate your tree and vacuum around it our tree daily.

If necessary, household insect sprays specifically labeled for use indoors on ornamental plants and evergreens may also be used, following label directions. It is important to turn off and unplug all tree lighting before any sprays are applied to your Christmas tree.

The National Christmas Tree Association also recommends shaking your tree outside one more time before bringing it inside.