| Scientific name | Lycorma delicatula |
|---|---|
| Group | Other Insects |
| Size | 20–25 mm (up to about 0.98 in) |
| Colors | Gray, Red and Black |
| Legs | 6 legs |
| Wings | Yes |
| Where found | Trees or shrubs and Yard or patio |
| Most active | Summer and Fall |
| Bites | No |
| Stings | No |
| Risk level | Nuisance |
How to identify it
The spotted lanternfly is a medium-sized member of the other insects group. Crickets, fleas, lice, mantises, dragonflies and other groups. Check for these three features:
- Gray forewings with black spots
- Bright red hindwings with black and white patches
- Mud-like gray egg masses on trees, stones and vehicles
About this bug
An invasive planthopper spreading through the eastern US that feeds on grapevines, maples and tree of heaven. Its folded gray forewings hide bright red hind wings.
You'll usually find spotted lanternflies on trees and shrubs and in yards and on patios. They are most active in summer and fall.
Is it dangerous?
Spotted lanternflies don't bite or sting; they damage vineyards and leave sticky honeydew.
Our rating: Nuisance, meaning it is a nuisance pest but not a health threat to most people.
When you'll see spotted lanternflies
Spotted Lanternflies are most active in summer and fall. Summer heat speeds up development, so populations can grow quickly. In fall, many bugs look for shelter, and some move toward or into buildings.
Typical places to check: trees or shrubs and yard or patio.
About other insects
The spotted lanternfly is one of the other insects. This group covers insects from several orders, including crickets, grasshoppers, fleas, lice, mantises, dragonflies, lacewings and planthoppers. Their life cycles vary widely: fleas and lacewings go through complete metamorphosis, while crickets, grasshoppers, mantises and lice grow gradually through nymph stages.
Check the specific profile for timing, because each of these insects has its own season and habits.
What to do about it
- Crush adults and nymphs and report sightings where your state requires it
- Scrape egg masses into rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer
- Use circle traps on tree trunks instead of sticky bands that catch birds
Bugs that look similar
Group: Spotted Lanternfly belongs to other insects, while periodical cicada belongs to true bugs. Crickets, fleas, lice, mantises, dragonflies and other groups.
Frequently asked questions
What does a spotted lanternfly look like?
Gray forewings with black spots. Adults measure 20–25 mm (up to about 0.98 in).
Does the spotted lanternfly bite or sting?
It does not bite. It does not sting. Spotted lanternflies don't bite or sting; they damage vineyards and leave sticky honeydew.
Where do spotted lanternflies live?
Spotted Lanternflies live on trees and shrubs and in yards and on patios.
When are spotted lanternflies most active?
Mostly in summer and fall.