What is spotted lanternfly?
The spotted lanternfly threatens many fruit crops and trees. Learn how to spot it and report it.
First discovered in Pennsylvania in 2014, it has become a major pest in that state and spread to several surrounding states. Interceptions of dead SLF specimens have taken place in Oregon and California during regulatory inspections. WSDA has responded to a number of reports in Washington that have all turned out to be negative.
Spotted lanternfly feeds on a wide range of fruit, ornamental and woody trees, with tree-of-heaven being one of the preferred hosts.
Spotted lanternfly first instar nymph (immature). This coloration persists through the third instar. Credit: itchydogimages Photo credit: Rkillcrazy
Spotted lanternfly fourth (final) instar nymph (immature). Credit: Pennsylvania Dept. of Agriculture
Profile of spotted lanternfly adult at rest. Note the wings are held tent-like over the back of the insect. Credit: Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture
Adult with mud-like egg mass on a trowel. Credit: Pennsylvania Dept of Agriculture
Report spotted lanternfly sightings
If you think you have seen spotted lanterfly, please photograph it and note the location to report it, before killing it.
- Email pestprogram@agr.wa.gov
- Report online using the Washington Invasive Species Council reporting app
- Call the WSDA Pest Program at 1-800-443-6684