At first glance, the Spotted Lanternfly can look surprisingly beautiful. Its gray wings are covered with black spots, while its hidden wings reveal a bright red color. But this attractive insect is actually an invasive species that can cause serious damage to plants and crops. As the original article describes it, the lanternfly is “a flashy little punk” that can quickly change from something interesting to something unwanted.

The insect damages plants by piercing their stems and trunks with a straw-like mouthpart and sucking out nutrient-rich sap. It also produces a sticky waste called honeydew, which can cover trees, patios, cars, and the ground below. This sugary substance encourages black sooty mold to grow on leaves, reducing sunlight and weakening the plant. Heavy infestations can affect fruit production and seriously stress trees.

Young lanternflies are small, black insects with white spots. As they mature, they become red with black and white markings. Adults are about an inch long, with gray wings covered in black spots and bright red wings underneath. During fall and winter, look for gray-brown egg masses that resemble dried mud on tree trunks, branches, rocks, fences, and outdoor furniture.

Removing them early can help. For individual insects, physical removal is effective; “Squishing them is highly effective.” Egg masses can be scraped away and placed in a container with rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer. Sticky bands may catch young insects, but they should be covered with protective mesh to avoid trapping birds and other wildlife.

Spotted Lanternflies do not bite or sting people, but they can threaten gardens, vineyards, crops, and trees. Reporting sightings in areas where they are not established can also help authorities track their spread. Even removing a few insects or egg masses can help protect your garden.