Unveiling an Alluring Intruder: The Charming Pest That Invades a New State

Illinois Discovers Invasive Spotted Lanternflies

Illinois has joined the list of states finding invasive spotted lanternflies, a winged insect that is rapidly spreading across the eastern US. First detected in the US almost ten years ago, this hitchhiking pest and its eggs have been hitching rides on vehicles and trains, expanding from southeast Pennsylvania across the country, according to the AP. The Illinois Department of Agriculture reported a sighting of one of these winged adult insects on September 16 at an undisclosed location. Department personnel visited the area and discovered a “moderately populated area of spotted lanternfly.” After collecting specimens, officials confirmed on Tuesday that these are indeed the first spotted lanternflies identified in the state.

In Illinois, while these insects are not expected to cause widespread plant or tree death, they are likely to become a nuisance pest that “may have some impact on the agritourism industry, including orchards, pumpkin patches, and vineyards,” said Scott Schirmer of the Illinois Department of Agriculture. If anyone comes across these insects, they are encouraged to smash them or scrape the egg masses into a container with hand sanitizer or rubbing alcohol to kill them.

Originally native to eastern Asia, spotted lanternflies have previously been found in Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio, as well as parts of the southeastern US, including Virginia. Despite their attractive appearance with distinctive black spots and bright red wing markings, these sap-sucking bugs mass and feed on plants. They then excrete a sticky, sugary waste called honeydew that attracts insects and a form of sooty mold that can destroy already weakened plants, posing a threat to crops and native trees. The sticky residue can also accumulate on houses, decks, and outdoor furniture.

(Read more spotted lanternfly stories.)