Thursday, July 3, 2025

Invasive Species Alert: Spotted Lantern Fly

Mark Venable identified a Spotted Lantern Fly on his property last week, and received some guidance from the MD Dept of Agriculture that I thought should be shared with the community. These insects could threaten vineyards and orchards because they suck sap from trees and grapevines, and excrete a sugary substance that attracts other insects and promotes mold growth. 

During the month of July, you might see late stage nymphs that are bright red, and adults may be present from July through November

 

 Info from the MDA:

 

Sightings  The Spotted Lantern Fly (SLF) has been found in the majority of Maryland’s counties. Regardless, any data you report helps us monitor population sizes and continue to track the spread of the insect. To properly report, please follow these steps:

  1. Take a picture of the insect, egg mass, or infestation.

  2. If possible, crush the insect or egg mass.

  3. Note the location of your finding.

  4. Enter this information here: Report a Spotted Lanternfly in Maryland 


More information on SLF (including images) and control measures:


Maryland Department of Agriculture’s Webpage: MDA Spotted Lanternfly 


University of Maryland Extension: University of Maryland Extension SLF 


Penn State Extension: Penn State Extension SLF 


Maryland Department of Agriculture | Plant Protection & Weed Management


Some recent good news on this subject:  A researcher at Rutgers University has found that bats love to eat Spotted Lantern Flies! Praying mantises also feed on these pests.

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