Does it kinda sound like… chewing?

You’re not crazy—and no, your tree isn’t trying to snack on itself. If you’re hearing faint crackling, crunching, or what sounds like chewing coming from your tree, it’s time to listen up. In Georgia, that eerie sound is often a telltale sign of pine beetles, and if they’re munching away, your tree is in serious trouble.

What Are Pine Beetles?

Pine beetles are small, but don’t let their size fool you. These pests bore into pine trees and feed on the inner bark, cutting off the tree’s ability to transport nutrients and water. Over time, this causes the tree to weaken and die. Once a tree is infested, it becomes a beacon for more beetles, inviting an even larger swarm to join the feast.

And here’s the kicker—pine beetles don’t stay put. They move fast, and they don’t discriminate. Healthy trees nearby can be infested in a matter of days, especially during Georgia’s hot and humid months when beetle activity is at its peak.

How Do I Know If My Tree Is Infested?

Besides the weird chewing noise, you might notice:

• Tiny holes in the bark (entry points for the beetles)

• Reddish-brown sawdust-like material around the base of the tree

• Pitch tubes—little globs of resin that look like sap-filled blisters

• Fading or yellowing needles, starting from the top down

If your tree shows any of these signs, it’s time to act fast.

What Should You Do?

This is where a tree removal service becomes your best friend. Infested trees need to be removed quickly and properly to stop the spread. Leaving a dying pine on your property not only threatens your other trees—it also increases the risk of it falling during a storm, potentially causing serious property damage or injury.

At Rapid Tree Service, our experienced crew knows exactly what to look for. We’ll assess the situation, determine how far the infestation has spread, and safely remove any compromised trees. Our team uses state-of-the-art equipment to ensure each removal is handled efficiently and with care for your landscape.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. If something in your yard sounds like it’s chewing, give us a call. We’ll get to the root of the problem—literally.

Call us today or Get a Quote Our team will be appy to come and give you a quote!