Spotted Lanternfly
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The Spotted Lanternfly – an invasive pest – in the adult stage and egg masses has appeared in our area. It arrived in 2021 and returned in 2022. Before you travel or move any items stored outdoors within or out of areas known to have the spotted lanternfly, check for and remove all stages of this harmful pest.
Why are we worrying about this insect?
Though the bug does not pose a threat to humans or animals, it is deadly to plants. It feeds and extracts sap, creates wounds in trees, excretes honeydew which builds up sooty mold, and impacts the overall quality of outdoor life.
The NJ Dept. of Agriculture has appealed to all residents “... to destroy the Spotted Lanternfly if possible when they see it. It will take a combined effort to help keep this pest from spreading.” Everyone can help. Parents can make it a game for their children will providing a useful lesson about the balances in nature. Check your cars and trees at home and while walking on trails.
What to do if you see a spotted Lanternfly or their egg masses in New Jersey?
Eliminate the adult lanternfly (swat it, squash it). Remove / destroy the egg masses (see video above). Add rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer to the inside of a zipper-sealed plastic bag. Use a plastic card — like a credit card — or a putty or butter knife to scrape the egg mass into the bag. The alcohol or sanitizer (or bleach) in the bag will kill the eggs.
Before you travel or move any items stored outdoors within or out of areas known to have the spotted lanternfly, check for and remove all stages of this harmful pest.
Additional information.
Why are we worrying about this insect?
Though the bug does not pose a threat to humans or animals, it is deadly to plants. It feeds and extracts sap, creates wounds in trees, excretes honeydew which builds up sooty mold, and impacts the overall quality of outdoor life.
The NJ Dept. of Agriculture has appealed to all residents “... to destroy the Spotted Lanternfly if possible when they see it. It will take a combined effort to help keep this pest from spreading.” Everyone can help. Parents can make it a game for their children will providing a useful lesson about the balances in nature. Check your cars and trees at home and while walking on trails.
What to do if you see a spotted Lanternfly or their egg masses in New Jersey?
Eliminate the adult lanternfly (swat it, squash it). Remove / destroy the egg masses (see video above). Add rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer to the inside of a zipper-sealed plastic bag. Use a plastic card — like a credit card — or a putty or butter knife to scrape the egg mass into the bag. The alcohol or sanitizer (or bleach) in the bag will kill the eggs.
Before you travel or move any items stored outdoors within or out of areas known to have the spotted lanternfly, check for and remove all stages of this harmful pest.
Additional information.
