Spotted Lanternfly Alert

Be on the lookout for spotted lanternflies!

Lanternflies have been spotted at the Batz property - they are in Ellington. This invasive species poses a significant threat to our state’s agriculture and forests, especially vineyards, orchards and nurseries. In Connecticut, 47% of our forest trees are susceptible. Fruit trees such as apples, cherries, grapes and peaches are very vulnerable. They may not kill the tree or vine but they can destroy the value of the fruit.

Both the early stage nymphs and adults feed by sucking sap from stems and leaves. Like our old enemy gypsy moths, they can weaken and damage the plants. The feeding also creates a sticky sugary “honeydew” which attracts other insects and promotes the growth of black mold which can further harm the plant. The honeydew is very hard to remove once it is on fruit. Good news, yellow jackets are attracted to the honeydew and will kill the lantern flies. While this is a helpful natural predator, they are not a complete solution to controlling spotted lanternflies.

Individuals are urged to kill any spotted lanternflies you find, but the State asks that you first take a picture and fill out a report form to help track these nasty insects.

Check your properties!