Speaking at the Penn State Forest Health, Insect and Disease seminar (3/27/18) Timothy Marasco, DCNR Bureau of Forestry in Harrisburg gave an update on the Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delictula) infestation in Southeast Pennsylvania.
The Spotted Lanternfly was first discovered in Berks County on September 22, 2014. A quarantine was issued to restrict the spread of the pest. The quarantine now includes 13 counties in Southeast PA. This invasive insect is a significant threat to fruits like grapes, apples and peaches as well as northeastern hardwood trees. By mid-May nymphs can be seen emerging from egg masses and by mid-July they take on a winged appearance distinguished by black spotted wings and red hind wings also adorned with black spots.
Given the damage we have seen with the Emerald Ash Borer we strongly recommend taking these invasive insects seriously. To limit the spread of these insects we must do what we can to limit the opportunities we grant these insects to become hitch hikers. Being mindful if you reside in a quarantined area can also help prevent the movement of these pests to new areas. If you live in Pennsylvania you can stay up to date on quarantines here: