Be on the Lookout for Signs of Spotted Lanternfly
Spotted lanternfly ( SLF ) is a pesky invasive pest that feeds on many important plants , such as apple trees and hop vines . With the recent finding of several live adult spotted lanternfly ( SLF ) on Staten Island , and the presence of established populations in Connecticut , it ’ s never been more important for people to be on the lookout for this invasive insect .
Since SLF spreads primarily through human activity , we really can make a difference . We are not aware of any established populations of SLF in Massachusetts . When you ’ re keeping a watchful eye , know that SLF can be confused with other common insects you might spot flying around this fall .
This time of year , the eastern boxelder bug or even gypsy moth eggs may catch your eye . The New York Department of Environmental Conservation has a new SLF poster to help , with photos of SLF as well as some common look-alikes . The eastern boxelder bug has black and red markings similar to those of an invasive spotted lanternfly nymph , but the elongated body and red eyes of the eastern boxelder bug help set it apart from SLF . You might find eastern boxelder bugs lounging in sunny spots or even in your home but not to worry — unlike spotted lanternfly they ’ re harmless .
Spotted lanternflies will lay eggs just about anywhere including on firewood , trees , and cars . If you find an egg mass remember , spotted lanternfly eggs look a bit like mud that has dried and cracked . European gypsy moth eggs , on the other hand , are lighter in color and fuzzy in texture . You ’ ll spot gypsy moth eggs on trees , firewood , or piles of rocks , but not on household items like SLF egg masses .
This article appeared in the November 2020 issue of the Citizen Forester newsletter and was adapted from the New York Dept . of Environmental Conservation .
If you believe you ’ ve seen the invasive spotted lanternfly in Massachusetts , please report it :
https :// massnrc . org / pests / report . aspx
DecemBer 2020 MAA NEWS 11