Spotted Lanternflies Are Back—Here's What To Do

The spotted lanternfly invasion is ramping up again across the eastern U.S., and experts have one clear message: stomp first, ask questions later.

These inch-long pests with their flashy red underwings are emerging for their annual takeover. First detected in Pennsylvania in 2014, they've now spread to about a dozen states from North Carolina to Massachusetts to Illinois.

Know Your Enemy

Adult spotted lanternflies look almost elegant at rest—gray wings dotted with black spots. But when they jump (and they jump a lot), you'll see a flash of bright red from their underwings. Think of them as nature's warning sign that says "invasive species alert."

The good news: they don't bite or sting people or pets. The bad news: they're agricultural nightmares that kill grapevines, damage walnut trees, and feast on maples. They've already destroyed entire vineyards in some areas.