The Spotted Lanternfly

 

An unwelcomed guest has arrived in New York State! The Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) is an invasive species from Asia.  First discovered in the United States in 2014 in the State of Pennsylvania, it is believed to have been brought here from imported landscaping trees.  Since then, they have been found in New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland and Virginia.  The first official infestation in New York State was discovered in August 2020, at Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve, located in Staten Island.  

 

The SLF is a planthopper insect related to cicadas, aphids, and stink bugs.  The SLF is a destructive pest that feeds on more than 70 plant species, including maple trees, apple trees, grapevine, and hops.  SLF feedings can stress plants, which makes them vulnerable to disease.  The excretions of the SLF attract “sooty molds,” which interfere with plant photosynthesis and  result in poor growth and low fruit yield.  This can have a devastating effect on our agricultural economy.

 

If you’ve noticed a different type of insect flying about recently, it may be the Spotted Lanternfly.  They are very active from late August into September, as this is the time when the adults begin laying their eggs.  The egg masses are covered by a protective coating, which helps the eggs to overwinter and hatch in Spring.

 

Because SLFs can jump and fly short distances, they spread mostly through human activity.  They lay their egg masses on vehicles, trailers, firewood, outdoor furniture, and even on stones.  When people travel or transport items to other areas or other states, they basically hitch a ride. 

You can help by spreading the word to your family, friends, and neighbors that these insects are an invasive pest that can harm our agriculture. Check out the photos and information here to enable you to identify these invasive pests and their egg masses so we can all participate in eradicating them.