Spotted Lanternflies Invasive Species Notice

Spotted Lanternflies are an invasive species that are currently in their adult (winged) phase. Last fall, they left behind sub-zero-tolerant egg masses that overwintered on tree trunks and other surfaces (these egg masses look like mud, and the best thing that you can do when you see them is to remove the mass and squish the eggs with a card like an old credit card).

But what to do right now about these invasive insects? You can help to keep their numbers down by responsibly squishing or trapping them. This includes good, old-fashioned foot stomping or creating a DIY lanternfly trap. We cannot emphasize strongly enough that people should not use sticky tape to capture these bugs. The sticky tape can also capture birds, leading to serious injury or death. The invasive bugs seem to prefer Tree of Heaven, so taking inventory of the trees on your property, and removing this particular species of tree can help to reduce the number of favorable locations for the insects to congregate and lay eggs.

Next year, in early Spring, take the time to check your yard for egg masses. These may be found on tree trunks, fence posts, and pretty much any vertical surface including bricks and siding. Scrape the egg mass, destroy the eggs and dispose of it. That will help to reduce the number of lanternflies that hatch in 2026. Every little bit helps in controlling this invasive species.