This invasive pest is spreading across Massachusetts. Learn how to identify spotted lanternflies, understand the risks, and protect your property.

Sometimes mistakenly called a “red lantern fly,” the spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is an invasive insect that has become increasingly common throughout Massachusetts. If you’ve noticed a strange, colorful insect around your trees, yard, or outdoor furniture, you may have found one. The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) has confirmed the spotted lanternfly in more than 145 Massachusetts cities and towns.

For homeowners in Oxford and throughout Central Massachusetts, knowing what to look for can help you identify an infestation before populations become difficult to manage.

What Is the Spotted Lanternfly?

The spotted lanternfly is an invasive, sap-feeding insect that originated in Asia and was first detected in the United States in Pennsylvania in 2014. Its preferred host is the invasive tree-of-heaven, but it can feed on more than 100 species of plants, including maple, grapevines, hops, and fruit trees.

While spotted lanternflies do not bite or sting people, large populations can stress plants and create problems around your property. As they feed, they produce a sticky substance called honeydew that can accumulate on plants, outdoor surfaces, vehicles, patios, and other areas. Honeydew can also encourage the growth of black sooty mold.

How to Identify and Manage Spotted Lanternflies

Adult spotted lanternflies are approximately one inch long. Their front wings are gray with black spots, while their hindwings have red coloring that becomes visible when the insect opens its wings. Younger nymphs look different. Early-stage nymphs are black with white spots, while later-stage nymphs develop noticeable red coloring.

Egg masses are another important sign to watch for. During the fall, spotted lanternflies lay gray or beige egg masses on trees and other outdoor surfaces. You can find them on landscaping materials, outdoor furniture, vehicles, and other objects.

Spotted lanternflies can also spread when egg masses or live insects hitchhike on vehicles, outdoor equipment, firewood, landscaping materials, and other items. Massachusetts officials encourage residents to check vehicles and outdoor belongings before moving them, particularly when traveling from areas with established spotted lanternfly populations.

Do Spotted Lanternflies Pose a Danger?

Spotted lanternflies don’t bite or sting, so they’re not a threat to you or your pets. The real worry is how they can mess with plants, trees, farming, and the environment when they start to multiply.

What Plants Attract Spotted Lanternflies?

Tree-of-heaven serves as the spotted lanternfly’s preferred host, but the insect also actively feeds on many other plants. Grapevines, maple trees, fruit trees, hops, and various woody plants can face damage. Property owners with these plants should monitor them more closely in areas where spotted lanternfly has been confirmed.

What Should I Do If I Find One?

If you find a suspected spotted lanternfly, take a clear photograph. Note where you found it. Massachusetts officials recommend reporting suspected sightings. This is particularly important when they occur in a community where the insect has not already been documented. Residents can use the state’s spotted lanternfly resources and distribution map to determine whether their community is already affected.

Can Spotted Lanternflies Damage My Trees?

Large populations can stress plants through feeding. Grapevines and young trees can be particularly vulnerable, while mature trees may be better able to tolerate feeding. Spotted lanternflies can also create nuisance conditions through honeydew and sooty mold around heavily infested areas.

How Can I Help Prevent Spotted Lanternflies From Spreading?

Inspect vehicles, trailers, outdoor furniture, equipment, and other items before moving them from an infested area. Look for both adult insects and egg masses. Removing spotted lanternflies and egg masses when appropriate, monitoring susceptible plants, and following Massachusetts management recommendations can help limit the pest’s spread.

And if you are having pest problems in your home or need a seasonal treatment for ticks and mosquitoes, remember to contact SWAT Pest and Wildlife!