Oak Leaf Galls: Harmless to Children, Just Insect Nurseries

No Toxicity Risk

Oak galls are NOT poisonous. Formed when tiny wasp lays egg + secretes chemical → leaf cells expand around egg.

What's Inside

• Wasp egg or tiny larva
• Neither harmful if ingested
• Protein source (unpalatable)

Child Management

Tell children: "Those are bug houses - eating them means eating bugs." Most kids avoid voluntarily.

Gall Facts

• Cosmetic only - no tree health impact
• Population varies yearly
• No control needed