If a big tree on your property suffers a serious insect infestation, then its health could soon start to fail. Once the tree is dying or dead, it becomes much more prone to toppling over in strong winds. This makes it a major safety hazard that could result in injuries and/or costly property damage. If you suspect that a tree in your yard is infested with insects, then you should call in an experienced arborist to inspect it. Then, it can be accurately determined whether the tree can be treated and saved, or if it needs to be safely cut down. At Orange County Tree Service, our local arborists are experts at identifying trees that need to be removed. And we have extensive experience with tree removal in the greater Greenwood Lake, NY area. Here are four kinds of insects that kill trees in New York. 

Gypsy Moth Caterpillar

The gypsy moth caterpillar is an invasive European insect that hatches during the springtime and then starts chomping down on the tree in the following months. While these caterpillars might not kill the tree outright, they can cause the tree’s health to decline, making the tree more susceptible to dying from additional factors. 

Emerald Ash Borer

Emerald ash borers are another invasive species. They lay their eggs on ash trees and when the larvae emerge, they start chowing down. These little beetles can kill many large ash trees in one area.

Southern Pine Beetle

These tiny little beetles are only about as big as a grain of rice. But when they gather in huge groups they can do major damage and kill off swaths of pine trees. 

Scarlet Oak Sawfly

These bugs lay eggs on oak leaves that, after a few weeks, hatch little green larvae that start feasting on the surrounding foliage. These larvae often eat just the material between the leafs’ veins, consequently skeletonizing the leaves. While oak trees are capable of surviving such an infestation, they don’t always. 

Arborist in Orange County, NY

When you need tree services in Greenwood Lake and the surrounding area, contact Orange County Tree Service at 845-288-1340. Feel free to give us a call today to ask for an arborist estimate in Greenwood Lake!