Watching and Monitoring for Spotted Lanternfly

Published on
08/14/2023
adult spotted lanternfly

 

We need you for a mission.

Search, scrape and destroy spotted lanternfly egg masses on trees, yard objects, vehicles and other types of outdoor surfaces early this fall into November.

The spotted lanternfly is an invasive species that poses a significant threat to peach, apple, grape and wine industries. They also have a negative effect on your yard plants.

The spotted lanternfly has been found in more areas throughout the County and we are asking for the public’s help to lessen the number. If you see adult spotted lanternflies, stomp/kill them immediately (and report them to us).

 

What to Look For and Do

As of now, the spotted lanternfly nymphs are moving into the adult phase of their life cycle, which lasts until November. Adults begin laying eggs in September and through the first few hard frosts. The egg masses are covered in a light gray colored wax that looks like mud when it dries.

lanternfly egg masses on a tree

 

Our Forest Pest Management unit also is asking you to help slow the spread of this invasive pest by being vigilant about not moving spotted lanternfly life stages when traveling through known infested areas and to vacuum nymphs and adults with a shop vac and scrape egg masses into a container of soapy water, as well as report sightings.

Vehicles are a major way the eggs and insects are spread around. Those vehicles parked near trees or forest edges have a greater chance of carrying a lanternfly hitchhiker. Make sure to check your vehicles, trailers and mobile equipment (tractors, bobcats, etc.) before visiting other locations.

The search is worth the effort because each egg mass contains about 50 lanternflies that will hatch next spring. Eggs can survive the winter and hatch if they are only scraped onto the ground, so please do the following:

  • Egg masses should be carefully scraped into a container and drowned in soapy water or rubbing alcohol.
  • Pesticides are unnecessary and should be avoided.
  • Egg masses can be safely disposed of in your trash, composted or simply buried in your yard.

Spotted lanternfly was found in isolated areas in Fairfax County in 2022. Forest Pest Management staff are monitoring countywide in conjunction with the United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Cooperative Agricultural Pest Survey and the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

 

Report Your Sightings

Please keep an eye out for spotted lanternfly in Fairfax County and report sightings to ReportSLF@fairfaxcounty.gov or to 703-324-5304. The popular mobile app, iNaturalist, is an effective and efficient method for reporting a lanternfly sighting, too.

 

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