What Are Praying Mantis Eggs on Christmas Trees
Praying mantis eggs on Christmas trees are egg cases, called oothecae, that can hitchhike indoors on live greenery. The ootheca is a foamy, tan or brown structure that protects dozens of developing nymphs through winter.
How to Identify a Praying Mantis Egg Case
Look for a small, round or oval foamy mass, often attached to branches or stems. Inside, the eggs are arranged in rows and will remain dormant until temperatures rise. If you find one, avoid crushing it, because it can contain many emerging insects.
Should You Remove Praying Mantis Eggs from Your Tree
You can gently remove the egg case with a piece of cardboard and place it on a nearby shrub or tree outside. This helps prevent hundreds of mantises from entering your home. For more information on handling insects on live trees, see guidance from university extension services at https://extension.umn.edu.
