What To Do If You Spot a Spotted Lanternfly
By: Orange County Communications Department
Effective July 2022, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) has expanded the area known as the Spotted Lanternfly Quarantine from four (4) localities to 21. The increase was a result of additional detections of the spotted lanternfly and the desire to prevent further spread through the Commonwealth, especially through artificial spread (the intentional or unintentional moving of these animals by humans). Thankfully, Orange County was not included in the revised quarantine area, but neighboring Albemarle County and the City of Charlottesville were added.
The spotted lanternfly is an invasive insect pest first discovered in the United States in 2014, when it appeared in Pennsylvania. Four (4) years later, the intruding creature was
found in Frederick County, Virginia. Following this discovery, a quarantine region was established to prevent or reduce its expansion. The insect is native to Asia, and is known to favor the Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) as a food source. However, it can cause significant damage to other plants and crops, and is particularly hazardous to grapes.
In its early (nymphal) stages, the spotted lanternfly is black with white spots. Later immature stages will gain a red coloration, while retaining the white spots and some black markings. Adult insects are around one (1) inch long and a half inch wide. They are light brown or grey with black spots, but extended wings reveal vibrant red hindwings underneath. The insects typically mature into the adult stage in July. As Orange County is on the border of the revised quarantine area, residents should be on the lookout for the insect. According to Ashley Appling, the Culpeper Extension Office ’ s Horticulture Extension Agent, those who suspect they ’ ve discovered a spotted lanternfly should capture the insect. “ Suspected samples should be collected alive, if possible, and brought to the local Extension Office for identification. Any sealed container will work. Our office will then send the sample to the Virginia Tech Insect ID Lab. This information will then be sent to VDACS, ” said Appling. The Tree of Heaven, itself a non - native species, is a favorite food of the spotted lanternfly.
Keep a watchful eye and help prevent this destructive insect ’ s spread into Orange County.
Sources and Additional Resources:
• Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Spotted Lanternfly Resources
• Virginia Cooperative Extension: Spotted Lanternfly Publication ENTO - 180NP
• Virginia Cooperative Extension: Residential Control for Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) in Virginia
• Virginia Cooperative Extension: Spotted Lanternfly in Virginia Vineyards
Page 16 | July, 2022
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