From the spotted lanternfly to the Joro Spider, it’s looking like a bug-filled summer here in New England. The spotted lanternfly returned with a vengeance to the Northeast in 2022, 2023, and now again in 2024. It isn’t quite as bad here in New England compared to states like New York where the lanternfly will literally swarm the city. However, as an insect that feeds on nearly 70 types of crops, it’s important to understand how they can impact your habitat.
Is the lanternfly dangerous to humans?
While not harmful to humans the spotted lanternfly is attracted to vibration. That’s why you’ll often find these bugs flying right into you. Annoying, but not harmful-to humans at least.
The Spotted lanternfly’s invasive nature
The spotted lanternfly does however pose a threat for Massachusetts’ natural habitats. Native to China and Vietnam, the spotted lanternfly first was first spotted in the United States in 2014. It was found in Pennsylvania and has spread, making its way to New York and parts of Massachusetts in addition to other parts of the country, making it a double brood and spotted lanternfly-filled summer for regions of the US.
The “planthopper” feeds on a wide range of crops and trees, in a destructive nature. “Nymphs and adults feed—often en masse—on plant sap with a piercing-sucking mouthpart that causes wilt and can weaken plants. The nymphs feed on more than 70 species of plants, including crops, such as apples, grapes, cherries, and peaches, and ornamental and woody trees, such as maples, oaks, sycamores, dogwoods, and lilacs,” notes Britannica.
The massive venomous Joro spiders also slated to make an appearance this summer do trap and consume the spotted lanternfly.
Where is the spotted lanternfly?
The lanternfly has been seen all over the state from Holliston to the Vineyard. The sap-feeding insect enjoys fruit trees, hardwood trees, grape plants and vines, and many other plants. The insect is not specific to one part of the state and can be found in all parts of Massachusetts as the summer continues.
Spotted lanternfly life cycle
Right now, the lanternflies may be hard to spot. In May and June the bugs are in their nymph phase, meaning they are pretty tiny and have yet to develop their signature red color. As they mature, in July, the spotted lanternfly develops a red tint on its body. July through September is the most prominent season, after which begins their mating season.