Spotted lanternflies are not just bad, they are downright despicable.  And they are in Massachusetts.

A breeding colony of spotted lanternflies was confirmed in Fitchburg, Mass, in late September.  The Department of Agricultural Resources is working to contain the infestation.  In the meantime, they are asking residents to be on the lookout for lanternflies.  If you spot one of these spotted invaders, you are advised to kill it immediately, and report your finding to the Department of Agricultural Resources.  So far, the only colony identified in Massachusetts, is the one found in Fitchburg.  All other sightings have been of individual lanternflies.

What makes lanternflies so bad?

Well, these paradoxical creatures feed on about 65 different species of plants and trees.  They are harmful to these plants and trees in a couple of ways.  First, they feed on the sap.  Once sated, they leave behind waste, but not just any kind of waste.  The kind of waste that fosters sooty mold growth, which gets to work killing the host plant or tree.  Colonies of lanternflies can obliterate agricultural crops, and have even been found to be a public nuisance in other states where colonies exist.

What kinds of crops do lanternflies destroy?

The spotted lanternfly loves feeding on maple and apple trees.  They also fancy grape vines and hops vines, which means that local wineries and breweries could suffer shortages.  And consumers could suffer, as well, by way of those crop shortages and higher prices associated with them.

How are lanternflies best exterminated?

If you find a single lanternfly, use whatever means you have to destroy it.  Step on it or swat it.  If you see evidence of eggs, on a tree or plant, there are recommendations for scraping those eggs off and disposing of them.  The most sensible solution for disposing of eggs is using neem oil, which can be found at your local plant supply store.  The Department of Agricultural Resources asks that you photograph your lanternfly finding, as well any supposed egg clusters, in order to report it.

See what lanternfly egg masses look like here.

The lanternfly isn’t the only pretty but dangerous insect.

Mother Nature sure plays some trickery with her creation of insects that look pretty or like a typical like species, yet are dangerous.  For insect lovers, especially moth and butterfly watchers, the lanternfly can be appealing.  Some might find it difficult to kill them.  But do kill them!  Here is a short list of other seemingly-innocent insects.

• Burnet moth – This spotted insect might be mistaken for a butterfly or lanternfly.  These colorful moths emit toxic hydrogen cyanided.
• Africanized honeybee – This bee looks like a typical honeybee, but will sting 10 times the amount.
• Bullet ant – Do not be fooled into thinking an ant can’t cause harm.  This ant gets its name, because it is reported to have a sting that feels like getting shot.

Spotted lanternflies are no joke.  Remain vigilant and be on the lookout for these harmful invaders.  If you find one, document it, and report it immediately!