Spotted Lanternfly on Long Island: What to Do If You See One
The spotted lanternfly is one of the most invasive insects to arrive on Long Island in years. Here's what it is, what it threatens, and exactly what to do if you see one.
What Is the Spotted Lanternfly?
An invasive planthopper native to Asia. Adults are roughly 1 inch long with gray forewings dotted black, and bright red hindwings revealed when they fly. Nymphs are black with white spots (early stage) or red with black-and-white markings (late stage). Egg masses look like smears of mud or putty on tree bark and outdoor surfaces.
Why It's a Problem
Spotted lanternflies feed on tree sap from over 70 plant species, including grapes, hops, fruit trees, and ornamental hardwoods. They excrete sticky honeydew, which promotes black sooty mold on plants and surfaces below. Heavy infestations can stress or kill trees and cause major agricultural damage.
What to Do If You See One
- Kill it. New York State encourages residents to kill spotted lanternflies on sight.
- Report it. Submit a sighting through the New York Department of Agriculture and Markets reporting tool.
- Photograph it. A clear photo helps confirm identification.
- Inspect for egg masses. Look on tree bark, lawn furniture, vehicles, and outdoor equipment from September through May.
Egg Mass Removal
Scrape egg masses into a container of rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer to destroy them. They look like a smear of putty 1–1.5 inches long.
Professional Treatment Options
For heavy infestations on properties with fruit trees, ornamentals, or "tree-of-heaven" (a preferred host), targeted treatment is available. Call us to discuss options for your property — we coordinate appropriate pest control approaches based on the situation.
Prevention
- Inspect outdoor equipment, vehicles, and firewood when traveling between regions
- Remove tree-of-heaven (a preferred host) when possible
- Scrape and destroy egg masses October–May