Spotted Lantern Fly
Identification:
Spotted lantern flies (SLF) have white-spotted black bodies which develop bright red coloration at different stages of their life cycle. When disturbed, adults spread their wings to show patches of red. Adult spotted lanternflies usually appear with their wings folded like tents above their backs. At rest, these pests measure about 1 inch long and 1/2 inch wide. Egg masses are covered with a gray-brown substance, flat, and laid on many surfaces, most commonly trees. For more information on identification of SLF at different stages of their life cycle, see the attached wanted poster.
Spotted lanternflies are exceptionally invasive and can be spread long distances by people who move infested material or items containing egg masses. Juvenile spotted lanternflies, known as nymphs, and adults prefer to feed on the invasive tree of heaven but also feed on a wide range of crops and plants, including grapes, apples, hops, walnuts and hardwood trees.
For a printable pamphlet on SLF Identification, click here
Control:
Whenever they are seen, SLF should be destroyed as quickly as possible. The adults and nymphs can be smashed, and egg masses can be scraped off trees into rubbing alcohol or soapy water to make them not viable. Whenever an SLF is found, report it to the Mass DNR as well as the Town Conservation Department if it is within Sudbury.
