What to Do If You See a Spotted Lanternfly in Greenfield

Invasive spotted lanternflies are a genuine threat to your yard. Squish them on sight, and rely on expert Greenfield spotted lanternfly control to fight back

As the world has continued to globalize over the last century, marvels of trade, technology, culture, and cuisine have found their way across the seas, enriching our lives in the process. However, there are caveats to this travel, including the spread of diseases and animal species that are novel to our region. While it might be intriguing to see a creature from far across the world in your backyard, know that there can be serious consequences when it comes to certain species. Some animals out of their native habitat quickly perish due to a lack of their preferred food, as well as different climate conditions, and others may thrive. Spotted lanternflies, sadly, have found refuge in the Northeast and are spreading down the eastern seaboard, where they have discovered they can thrive far from their native range in Asia, and we have no natural predators to counter these curious little leafhoppers. These insects are beautiful to look at, with sooty gray backs covered in spots, and their wing backs are a vibrant orange-red, but don’t be deceived by their appearance. These pests represent a significant and growing threat to your yard. 

Spotted Lanternflies Could Doom Your Trees

Unfortunately, spotted lanternflies are finding a lot of success as they spread throughout our region, and this is due to their unique ability to suck sap from beneath tree bark. While this might seem like benign behavior, it is anything but. Because populations of these pests are growing so rapidly, trees can be overwhelmed by the masses of spotted lanternflies on them, losing significant amounts of vital fluid in the process and suffering from a compromised immune system. Over time, a spotted lanternfly infestation could kill trees in your yard, as well as surrounding foliage, thanks to the waste from these insects. Indeed, the excrement from these leafhoppers is quite sugary and is a perfect fuel for sooty black mold. When enough of this mold develops, it can kill leaves and the plants that depend on them to survive, making spotted lanternflies a significant threat to your yard. So how can you fight back? If you see one of these pests, you should snap a picture and squish it immediately. In addition, you should look out for egg masses from these insects, which resemble caked mud on tree trunks. Use a rigid card, trowel, or similar tool to chisel these eggs from a tree and either squash them thoroughly or put them in a plastic bag with rubbing alcohol. For the best coverage, professional help is also advised, such as the solutions from Mosquito Squad Plus.

Powerful Greenfield Spotted Lanternfly Control 

At Mosquito Squad Plus, we are just as concerned as you about the threat these pests pose to your backyard landscaping. They threaten our yards as well! Rather than deal with them on your own, however, rely on our team to keep them at bay! With the help of our powerful spotted lanternfly treatments and team of highly trained technicians, we can address your existing problems with these pests, targeting them where they reside on your trees, as well as their egg masses. With regular treatments during the outdoor living season when these pests are most active, you get the coverage you need to keep your trees healthy, as well as fight the spread of spotted lanternflies across our region! It’s a win-win. 

For all your Greenfield spotted lanternfly control needs and questions, give our team at Mosquito Squad Plus of Springfield a call today at (413) 418-3359. We look forward to hearing from you!