What is the Concern?
The spotted lanternfly Lycorma delicatula, (SLF) was first found in North America in Pennsylvania in late 2014. SLF is a serious invasive pest with a healthy appetite for our plants and it can be a significant nuisance, affecting the quality of life and enjoyment of the outdoors. The SLF uses its piercing-sucking mouthpart to puncture plant stems, leaves and fruit, then feed on the sap, from over 70 different plant species. This feeding activity can weaken and stress plants, making them more susceptible to diseases and other environmental stressors. It has a strong preference for economically important plants including grapevines, maple trees, black walnut, birch, willow, and other trees. Approximately half of Connecticut's trees are threatened by spotted lanternfly invasion according to data from Connecticut's Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). The feeding damage significantly stresses and weakens the plants which can lead to decreased health and potentially death of the trees and plants.

As SLF feeds, the insect excretes honeydew (a sugary substance) which can attract bees, wasps, and other insects. The honeydew also builds up and promotes the growth for sooty mold (fungi), which can cover the plant, forest understories, patio furniture, cars, and anything else found below SLF feeding.

Tips on Identifying SLF
•  Egg masses are covered with a gray-brown substance, flat, and laid on many surfaces, most commonly trees.
•  Long legs make SLF strong jumpers; both nymphs and adults often jump when prodded or approached.
•  Early nymphs have black bodies with bright white spots.
•  Late nymphs are colorful, red, and roughly the size of a nickel.
•  Adults have hind wings with red patches, and gray forewings with black spots and veins. When folded, only the forewings are visible and provide camouflage against tree bark.

What to Do If You Find SLF
First, and most important – if you think you have observed spotted lanternflies, do not attempt to move any wood or other potentially infested material from the site. Instead, you should:

•  Report potential sightings of this invasive pest. If you suspect you have found a SLF, snap a picture of it and report it by filling out this SLF Reporting Form. All reports are confidential.
•  Kill any spotted lanternflies you find immediately (squishing them is OK).
•  Follow these tips for dealing with spotted lanternflies.
•  Please check your vehicles for stowaways! Inspect your vehicles, trailers, and other items for SLF adults and egg masses when travelling through areas with known or suspected SLF populations. These insects are known to hitch a ride on vehicles and even clothing.

Additional Sources of Information:
https://portal.ct.gov/CAES/CAPS/CAPS/Spotted-Lanternfly---SLF
https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/resources/pests-diseases/hungry-pests/the-threat/spotted-lanternfly/spotted-lanternfly