The spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) has swiftly become one of the most destructive invasive pests in the Northeast. Originally from Asia, it was first detected in Pennsylvania in 2014 and has since spread rapidly to surrounding states. You may now find them in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and beyond.

If you’ve spotted these eye-catching but harmful insects—adults, nymphs, or their egg masses—on your property, you’re not alone. Taking action now is essential to mitigate their impact.

What Are Spotted Lanternflies?

These are actually planthoppers, not true flies. They feed by sucking sap from a broad range of trees, shrubs, and ornamental plants. Here’s how to identify them:

• Adults: Gray wings with black spots and striking red underwings when in flight.
• Nymphs: Black with white spots at first; later stages show red and black with white spots.
• Egg Masses: Flat, mud-like tan smears found on tree bark, outdoor furniture, vehicles, and other surfaces.

Why Are Spotted Lanternflies So Harmful?

• Tree Stress & Damage: Sap feeding weakens plants and increases disease vulnerability.
• Agricultural Harm: They devastate grapes, hops, fruit trees, and other crops—costing industries millions.
• Nuisance Behavior: They swarm and excrete sticky honeydew that fosters sooty mold and attracts other pests.

How Homeowners Can Help Reduce Populations

Combating spotted lanternflies requires a multi-pronged strategy. Here’s how you can help:

1. Mechanical & Organic Controls

• Scrape and Destroy Egg Masses
  From late fall through early spring, check surfaces—trees, fences, decks, equipment—and scrape off egg masses into a bag containing rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer. Each removed egg mass can prevent 30–50 future insects.
• Use Tree Traps
  Sticky bands or funnel-style traps can intercept nymphs and adults climbing trees. Shield wildlife by enclosing the sticky zone with mesh.
• Remove Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima)
  This invasive tree is the lanternfly’s preferred host. Removing or treating it can drastically reduce local populations.

2. Chemical Treatments

• Systemic Insecticides (e.g., imidacloprid, dinotefuran) – Applied to trunks or soil; protect trees for weeks.
• Contact Sprays (pyrethroid-based) – Immediately knock down lanternflies but may require reapplication during peak activity.

Always follow label instructions or seek help from a licensed professional.

3. Report Sightings Promptly

Reporting is key to regional monitoring and control. If you notice egg masses, nymphs, or adults, report them to your state’s extension service or department of agriculture. Many states offer online forms or email reporting. Early detection helps slow the invasion and mobilize resources quickly.

Resource Section: Where to Report Spotted Lanternfly Sightings

Stay alert and help your community by reporting any spotted lanternfly activity. Here are state-specific reporting links or contacts:

• Massachusetts (MDAR) – Use the SLF Reporting Form to submit photos and sighting details.
• New York (NYS Department of Environmental Conservation / Agriculture & Markets) – Email photos and location to the DEC or complete the Agriculture & Markets reporting form.
• Pennsylvania – Call 1-888-4BAD-FLY or report online via StopSLF.org.
• Rhode Island – Submit sightings through their online portal at appengine.egov.com/apps/ri/dem/demcaps.
• Other States – This federal directory from the USDA and the National Invasive Species Information Center provides links to reporting tools for additional states like Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Virginia, and more.

The Bigger Picture

Spotted lanternflies spread through human activity—hitchhiking on vehicles, firewood, outdoor items, or nursery stock. Be vigilant: inspect and, if needed, clean your RV, trailer, equipment, or plant shipments before transport to avoid unintentionally expanding their range.

While spotted lanternflies are unlikely to be eradicated, your involvement matters immensely. Combining scraping, trapping, chemical or organic controls, and—critically—reporting sightings helps slow their spread and protect natural and agricultural landscapes across the Northeast.