A spotted lanternfly at different stages of development Photo Credit: nps.gov

— Tucker Smith, Guest Contributor

New York is no stranger to bugs in the summertime. The hot days would seem empty without fireflies, cicadas, and even mosquitos. But one insect isn’t interested in summer fun: the spotted lanternfly.

This invasive species is native to Asia, and has been spreading across America since 2014. The first infestation was discovered in New York in 2020. Keep reading to find out how to identify spotted lanternflies, why they’re dangerous, and what to do if you see one.

What Does a Spotted Lanternfly Look Like?

Photo Credit: mtcubacenter.org

Spotted lanternflies go through four distinct stages of maturity: egg, black nymph, red nymph, and adult. New egg masses, sometimes described as mud-like, are one inch long, brownish-gray, and coated in a waxy film; older masses are brown and scaly. Black nymphs, which emerge from April to July, are black with white spots, until they mature through July to September and become red.

As adults, spotted lanternflies are about one inch long and half an inch wide. Their wings are their distinguishing feature. Black spots dot their gray forewings, while their hindwings are split: the lower hindwing is red with black spots, and the upper part is dark with a white stripe.

Why are Spotted Lanternflies a Problem?

Spotted lanternflies feed on tree sap. The swarms of hundreds––sometimes thousands––of feeding insects render over 70 plant species vulnerable to disease and attack.

Spotted lanternflies also produce an excretion called honeydew in much greater amounts than native species. Honeydew attracts sooty molds and other insects, which can impede photosynthesis and destroy plants. Beyond the damage this does to New York’s flora, it also has a financial effect on our state’s crop yield.

Spotted lanternfly egg masses can be found on outdoor surfaces like vehicles, furniture, and trees Photo Credit: Kenneth R. Law, dec.ny.gov

How Do I Spot an Infestation?

Here are three telltale signs of a spotted lanternfly infestation:

You’ll see small, wet-looking cuts on tree trunks that ooze sap and may give off a fermented odor.
You’ll notice brownish-gray/mud-like or scaly egg masses.
You’ll find a buildup of honeydew beneath plants, sometimes accompanied by sooty mold.

How Can I Help?

The first step in helping get rid of spotted lanternflies is learning how to identify them, so you’re well on your way!

You should also take time to carefully examine outdoor items (firewood, furniture, camping equipment, etc.) for egg masses, particularly items that come from states with spotted lanternfly infestations, like Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Human activity drives spotted lanternfly movement––eggs are laid on vehicles, lawn furniture, or other outdoor items, and transported.

Here’s what to do if you think you’ve noticed a spotted lanternfly infestation:

Note the location.
Destroy any egg masses by scraping them into either a bucket of hot, soapy water or a jar of hand sanitizer.
Take pictures of infestation signs (including an object for scale) and email them to spottedlanternfly@agriculture.ny.gov or fill out the Department of Agriculture and Markets' reporting form.

As you soak in the sun this summer, be sure to keep an eye out for these pests!