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Spotted Lanternfly

INVASIVE PEST ALERT : SPOTTED LANTERNFLY

The Spotted Lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula (White), an invasive planthopper, has been discovered in Eastern Pennsylvania. This insect, which is native to China, India, & Vietnam, feeds on a wide range of plants and trees. This non-native plant hopper attacks many hosts and has the potential to greatly impact the grape, fruit tree, and logging industries.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and their state cooperators need your help in detecting the spotted lanternfly. Early detection is vital for the protection of Pennsylvania businesses and agriculture.

Learn about its life cycle and habits

Eggs are laid in late fall and hatch in the spring. Throughout the year, you could be seeing both adults that emerged in July and remain active until winter, along with newly laid eggs. Egg masses are laid on trees, decks, houses, and other hard surfaces and are protected by a mud-like covering. SLF adults are the most detectable stage since they are large, brightly colored, and mobile.

Homeowner Management of Spotted Lanternfly

There are two major steps Homeowners can do to stop the spread of SLF. The first step is to check your car and any outdoor equipment (grills, mowers, firewood, etc.) when you go in and out of Montgomery County. If you find SLF eggs, nymphs, and adults, do not transport them out of the quarantine zone.

The second step is to manage the SLF on your own property. Homeowners who believe that they have SLF on their property are encouraged to read Penn State Extension’s guide for homeowners for management tips and strategies. 

Additional Resources

PennState Extension and the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture are two great resources for learning more about the spotted lanternfly. They provide videos, articles, and photo galleries to help people learn how to identify the insect and what to do once they find it.

Call the Spotted Lanternfly Hotline at 1-888-422-3359.

Information provided by PennState Extension and PA Department of Agriculture.