The U.S. Department of Agriculture is recruiting helpers in the fight against an invasive lanternfly infestation. “Spotted Lanternflies might look cool, but these invasive pests are a serious threat to our trees and crops,” shares the announcement. “If you spot one, squash it immediately! Every kill helps protect our environment…The spotted lanternfly is a hitchhiking pest that is native to Asia. It lays its eggs on any hard surface including grills, vehicles, trailers, firewood, outdoor furniture, bikes and toys. The pest was first detected in 2014 in Pennsylvania. It likely arrived in the United States on goods shipped from overseas.” Juvenile spotted lanternflies are black with white spots and turn red as they develop. Adults are roughly 1-inch long and 1/2-inch wide and have a yellow, black-barred abdomen. With large, visually striking wings, adult spotted lanternflies can be easier to spot than other pests. This species poses a danger to the fruit and forest industries.
