Problem with Acer Tree

[Iinvisible]

Ok, I've googled and can't find the answer cos basically I don't know what to feed in to ask!
My beautiful green acer tree seems to have been infested by something. All over the branches are small brown balls (about the size of a ball bearing) firmly attached. I've squashed one and there seems to be hundreds and hundreds of tiny white eggs (possibly) inside. There are also ants marching up and down the branches but I'm not sure what they are taking away because I've watched and can't see any of them carrying anything.
Any ideas what might be about to hatch by the millions???? Aaaaaaargggh!!!!!

[TonyV]

possibly sounds like scale beetle - if it is -treat with something containing Pyrethrum may take a few appliclations - then a tar wash oil in December

[Iinvisible]

Ok. Thanks TonyV. I will google it and see if I can find a picture.

[khooper28]

I think TonyV has probably hit the nail on the head..hope u get it sorted.