SPOTS: Have you spotted a spotted lanternfly?

SLF is currently found in 51 counties in Pennsylvania, all of which are under a state-imposed quarantine to slow its spread.

The polka-dotted pest hasn’t been found in McKean, Elk or Potter counties, but it has been found in Cameron County. Before you travel or move anything, check your vehicle and any items that have been stored outdoors. Remove all stages of the lanternfly.

Right now, there may be egg masses — which look like cracked mud — or nymphs. The nymphs are black with white spots, then red with white spots before adulthood, where the critters have wings with black spots.

Adults are about an inch long.

We’ve seen these invasive pests in Pittsburgh, and they are instantly identifiable. Visit https://extension.psu.edu/spotted-lanternfly for images and more information.

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. If not contained, spotted lanternfly could potentially drain Pennsylvania’s economy of at least $324 million annually, according to a study carried out by economists at Penn State. The spotted lanternfly uses its piercing-sucking mouthpart to feed on sap from over 70 different plant species. It has a strong preference for economically important plants including grapevines, maple trees, black walnut, birch, willow and other trees. The feeding damage significantly stresses the plants, which can lead to decreased health and potentially death.

As SLF feeds, the insect excretes a sugary substance which can attract bees, wasps and other insects. The stuff 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.