Spotted Lantern Fly (Lycorma delicatula). First arrived in North America (in Berks County, Pennsylvania) in 2014, probably on a shipment of stone from China. This alien invasive eats the sap of at least 70 tree species, including fruit trees, and shrubs, ornamentals, and soybeans. Its favorite plants are Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima), grapevines, walnuts and most hardwood trees. Along with being in Pennsylvania it has already been found in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
The image above is a Spotted Lantern Fly in the only condition that I like to see one in. It has been smashed.
Be on the lookout for an insect that looks like a moth or butterfly. They’re actually in the planthopper family, related to Cicadas, Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs, Aphids, and Leafhoppers. It for sure does look like a moth or butterfly -dressed in an outfit that is brilliant and otherworldly.
The picture above is a 4th stage nymph. Earlier stages are black with bright white spots. All nymph stages are wingless.
Keep your eyes open for these creatures and be ready to stomp on any that you find. Keep in mind that they are EXTREMELY QUICK!
________________________________
If you would like to receive my daily blog posts by email, sign up here!
