Spring & Summer Pest Alert: Spotted Lanternflies in Chesapeake, VA

Identifying Spotted Lanternflies in Chesapeake, VA 

Spotted lanternflies are an invasive planthopper that destroys local agriculture and vegetation in Chesapeake. Their presence throughout spring and summer can be marred by an inability to recognize their traits and characteristics. Spotted lanternflies change form throughout their lifespan, starting from a grey-looking streak of mud, to tiny black insects with white spots, and then forming into their late stage form which is identified through their red hindwings. 

These pests begin to emerge in spring, grow larger in summer, and utilize the plentiful tree cover and vegetation in Chesapeake as a food source. Early identification results in a faster treatment and reduction response, but mid-to-late stage identification does not mean all hope is lost. Professional outdoor pest control services like Mosquito Squad of Hampton Roads can help you address the presence of spotted lanternflies in your yard.

Steps to Limit Spotted Lanternflies at Your Chesapeake Home

With the rise of spotted lanternflies in the Chesapeake region, residents are encouraged to take proactive action to limit their overall impact. There are a few steps you can take to limit the presence and reduce spotted lanternflies on your property. 

For one, nymphs are easy to remove from their feeding tree and squish. This method is beneficial for the physical removal and limitation of their ability to spread. You will notice their size is similar to that of a tick and they have tiny white spots on their body. Another option is to use circle traps or sticky bands. Circle traps are the preferred method of nymph capture as they aren’t harmful to other local wildlife in Chesapeake. This tool leads spotted lanternfly nymphs into a jar or container for easy removal. Circle traps catch nymphs as they climb their feeding tree, but it can also lead to the damaging of local birds or squirrels. If you do choose to use sticky traps, it’s essential to cover them with mesh wiring to keep local wildlife from harm.

Lastly, it’s important not to transfer firewood or nursery stock without first checking for spotted lanternflies. Nymphs and egg masses tend to hitch a ride in wheel wells and undercarriages. If you have been to an area where spotted lanternflies are known to live and breed, it’s essential to check your car to limit transportation. With the region in quarantine, it’s increasingly beneficial to do your part in protecting your home and your neighboring community.

Remember, if you notice the presence of spotted lanternflies, it’s pertinent to alert the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

How Professional Spotted Lanternfly Control in Chesapeake Can Help

If the DIY options feel stressful, we understand. It can be difficult to tell a nymph from a tick, understand how to address the problem while keeping wildlife safe, or even how to eliminate their presence once captured. At Mosquito Squad of Hampton Roads, we have designed an outdoor pest control remedy that addresses the Spotted lanternfly issue at the source.

Our Yard Defender program uses an EPA-registered blend to reduce and control the spotted lanternfly presence at your Chesapeake home. By focusing our treatment on areas where spotted lanternflies and nymphs breed or hide, we can help you defend your yard and garden from this invasive pest.

Before creating your pest control plan, our Chesapeake technicians will conduct a thorough assessment of your property to take note of the layout and areas of risk. With this information, we can create a tailored plan that helps you fight against the spring and summer spotted lanternfly hatching season and reduce the population that is already established.

For Reliable Spotted Lanternfly, Pest Control in Chesapeake, VA Near You

Spotting unusual insects on your Chesapeake property this season? Call Mosquito Squad of Hampton Roads at (757) 300-1839 or contact us online for a free quote!