Spotted Lanternflies Have Spread to 22 States, and They're Not Leaving

The invasive spotted lanternflies have been observed in over 20 states. Unfortunately for those tired of these pesky critters, experts predict that it could be months before they die off.

The Spotted Lanternfly Invasion is Here  

At least 22 states in the eastern U.S. have seen an infiltration of spotted lanternflies. These invasive insects have been expanding across the U.S. for the last decade after first being observed in 2014 in the southeastern corner of Pennsylvania. The confirmed sightings now total 22 states and Washington, D.C.

A new map from Cornell IPM has confirmed that these insects have been detected as far south as Georgia and as far west as Iowa. New Hampshire was the latest state to be added to the list.

According to Julie Urban, an associate research professor of entomology at Penn State University, the bugs are here to stay. Urban also explained that a population decline in any given year does not mean that the insects have disappeared. The volume of these lanternflies can ebb and flow over time, impacting different areas to varying degrees with each year.

One thing that is consistent is that insects typically begin to emerge at the end of July, becoming more noticeable by the early fall. Most people begin to notice them this time of the year as they move toward new food sources and become more mature.

While the lanternflies are equipped with wings, they are not strong fliers. Instead, they get around best by climbing trees and buildings and then gliding to their next destination. Despite the flying challenges, the insects can hitch rides on cars, trains, and buses, carrying them hundreds of miles.