Spotted lanternflies confirmed in Covington. How to identify, report the invasive species
They're back. Spotted lanternflies, an invasive, destructive pest, have been found in Northern Kentucky.
The spotted lanternfly, an invasive planthopper first reported in the United States in 2014, has been found at two locations in Covington, according to a press release. A single lanternfly was found near the railroad line in Downtown Covington and a larger population was found by researchers in Devou Park.
Urban forester Patrick Moore is asking residents to be on the lookout for the invasive species and to report any sightings to researchers, as the insect is "a major agricultural, forestry, and residential pest." University of Kentucky entomologists say that their return to the region could potentially lead to billions of dollars in economic losses.
"We figure 41,000 sets of eyes are better than just a couple, so please be on the lookout. It's critical that these populations be controlled before they become widely established," Moore said in the release.
Here's what you should know.
What are spotted lanternflies?
According to the Buckeye Yard and Garden Online , the spotted lanternfly is a "non-native, invasive planthopper." Spotted lanternflies feed on the sap of trees, vines, and perennials such as fruit trees, hops, maple, willow, and walnut. However, the species favors the Tree of Heaven and wild and cultivated grapes.
Where did spotted lanternflies come from?
The invasive species are native to Asia but first appeared in the U.S. in Pennsylvania in 2014, likely brought over by imported woody plants, wood products, and other goods.
Established spotted lanternfly populations have been found in Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and northern Virginia.
What do spotted lanternflies look like?
An adult spotted lanternfly is approximately one inch long and half an inch wide. They typically have black bodies, red and grey wings, and black markings. The spotted lanternfly enters the adult moth stage during the late summer and fall. During this stage, the species usually has black bodies and brightly colored wings.
Why are spotted lanternflies bad?
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, the spotted lanternfly can cause damage, including oozing sap, wilting, leaf curling, and dieback to trees, crops, vines, and other plants.
When spotted lanternflies feed, they excrete honeydew, a sugary substance that can encourage the growth of sooty black mold. This mold is harmless to people but can damage plants. Due to nymph feeding patterns, honeydew may be found on nearby plants and other surfaces through the spring, which could attract other insects, such as wasps and butterflies.
The USDA says spotted lanternflies decimate almonds, apples, blueberries, cherries, peaches, grapes, hops, and hardwoods such as oak, walnut, and poplar.
How to check for spotted lanternflies
The USDA recommends checking outdoor items for spotted lanternfly egg masses, including any items you may bring indoors during the winter. If you find egg masses, scrape them into a plastic zippered bag filled with hand sanitizer or rubbing alcohol, then zip the bag shut and properly dispose of them.
Look for egg masses on trees and outdoor plants, especially at dusk or at night when the insects tend to gather in large groups on trunks and stems. Also, make sure to check car doors, sides, bumpers, wheel wells, grills, and roofs, as spotted lanternflies are also known to enter vehicles.
How to report spotted lanternflies in Ohio
If you suspect a spotted lanternfly infestation, take a picture or collect a sample and report the finding to the ODA Plant Pest Control using the Ohio Plant Pest Reporter .
How to report spotted lanternflies in Northern Kentucky
If you see a spotted lantern fly, you should capture it if possible, take a photo, and report it to the Kenton County Cooperative Extension office by calling 859-356-3155. You can also send photos and information to Brandon George at , Mary Ann Schultz at or .
