Be on the Lookout for Spotted Lanternfly

New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation issued a statement warning residents to be on alert for the well-known invasive bug called the spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula). These bugs feed on more than 70 species of plants, including some that are economically important to Oregon, such as apple trees, grapevines, and hops. Before the bugs become adults, the nymphs are small and black with white spots, which turn red for a short period of time and look like the one featured below in the video. While these invasive pests have not been reported in Oregon, it’s important to be informed and stay on the lookout for potential threats. If you think you’ve found a spotted lanternfly nymph or an adult spotted lanternfly, please call the Oregon Invasive Species Hotline at 1-866-INVADER (1-866-468-2337). To learn more about the spotted lanternfly, check out this useful webpage here.

Spotted lanternfly fourth (final) instar nymph (immature). Credit: itchydogimages

Profile of spotted lanternfly adult at rest. Note the wings are held tent-like over the back of the insect. Credit: Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture