Learn About Spotted Lanternflies

What are Spotted Lanternflies?

Spotted lanternflies (Lycorma delicatula) are invasive insects that primarily threaten grape vines, fruit trees, and hardwood trees. Native to Asia, they were first detected in Pennsylvania in 2014 and have since spread to multiple states.

For more information, visit the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's guide on stopping the spotted lanternfly.

Why are they harmful?

  • Feed on plant sap, weakening plants and reducing crop yields
  • Excrete honeydew that promotes mold growth
  • Can cause significant economic damage to agricultural industries
  • Threaten native ecosystems

How to identify them?

  • Adults are about 1 inch long
  • Distinctive spotted wings
  • Red underwings visible during flight
  • Active from July through December

Easy Ways to Kill Them

  • Stomp Them – If you see a Lanternfly, just step on it! They're quick, so be ready to "stamp em' out!"
  • Squash or Swat Them – A fly swatter, rolled-up newspaper, whatever object is closest to you, or even your hands (if you don't mind) work fine.
  • Coffee Cup Trap – Use a domed-lid cup (like a Starbucks Frappuccino cup) with a small opening. Place the hole above the Lanternfly and lower the cup. The bug will jump into the cup and get trapped.

Safe Sprays & DIY Solutions

  • Soapy Water Spray – Mix equal parts dish soap and water in a spray bottle and spray directly on them.
  • Vinegar Spray – Straight vinegar in a spray bottle also works, but it can harm plants, so be cautious with application.
  • Rubbing Alcohol – A spray of diluted rubbing alcohol can kill lanternflies on contact.

Prevent & Stop Them from Spreading

  • Scrape Off Egg Masses – During the fall/winter, look for clusters of brownish-gray eggs on trees, fences, or any outdoor furniture. Scrape them into a plastic bag with rubbing alcohol or soapy water to destroy them. Dispose of the bag.
  • Check Your Car & Outdoor Items – Lanternflies love to hitch rides on vehicles, firewood, and outdoor furniture. They're very efficient. Inspect your items and be sure to remove any egg masses before traveling.
  • Remove Their Favorite Trees – They love the Tree of Heaven (a weed-like tree). These plants are their preferred host, if you have one, consider cutting it down.

How to Help

  1. Report sightings through our app
  2. Kill any lanternflies you encounter
  3. Check your vehicles and outdoor equipment
  4. Share information with others