Millions of Critters Are Lighting Up Weather Radars — But They’re Not What You Think

Social media was all abuzz last week about the swarms of invasive lanternflies that were reportedly showing up on weather radar. What do the experts say? Read on for the details.

What You Need to Know About the Invasive Spotted Lanternflies

While some people were originally reporting last week that the spotted lanternflies were so thick that they were detected on weather radars, the truth is that there is a different species responsible. The lanternflies have been all over the mid-Atlantic region this summer. The sightings peaked over the last few weeks with residents taking to social media to post pictures.

According to an infestation map from Cornell University, the invasive pests are most prevalent in the zone from North Carolina and up to Massachusetts. The lanternflies hatched during the late spring months and have been hanging around since that time. They are expected to be a nuisance until December, when the weather cools considerably.

The pests are known to feed on a variety of plants, including grapevines and stone fruit trees. The lanternflies excrete a sticky substance as they feed. This substance supports the development of mold, another danger to growing plants. At least 19 states and the District of Columbia are under some degree of infestation from the pests. Local officials are recommending that residents kill them when they are spotted.

Adult lanternflies measure approximately 1 inch long and 1/2-inch wide. The spotted wings are the most distinguishing feature of this pest. The hind wings are red with black spots in the front and white and black stripes towards the rear. The pests can also be identified by their yellow abdomen with black bars.

The invasive lanternflies tend to spread by hitching rides on vehicles or other products that travel long distances. A species that is native to Asia, the lanternflies reproduce by laying eggs on hard surfaces such as vehicles, outdoor furniture, firewood, bikes, and grills.

A new egg mass typically holds between 30 and 50 eggs, appearing as a gray paste in the initial stages before turning brown. These masses measure about 1 inch long, showing up in the fall, winter, and spring months.