Spotted Lanternfly in Virginia


A potentially very serious pest of grapes, peaches, hops, and a variety of other crops, the spotted lanternfly (SLF), Lycorma delicatula, was detected in Frederick County, Virginia, on Jan. 10, 2018.

It is important to look for it and report any finds.

The spotted lanternfly has also been reported on a range of ornamentals around the home and in the landscape; in high numbers, the insect can become a nuisance pest to homeowners.
   

Spotted Lanternfly immatures

Early, immature stages of the spotted lanternfly are wingless and black and have white spots that develop to red patches.

Spotted Lanternfly adults

At rest, the adult SLF resembles a colorful moth and shows light-brown, grayish wings with black spots held "tent-like" over its body. When the wings are open, yellow and red patches are exposed. Adult SLF are approximately 1" long and ½" wide.

Spotted Lanternfly egg masses

SLF egg masses are 1-1.5" long and ½-¾" wide, shiny and grayish-brown in color when fresh. They weather to a flat gray-brown color with age.

Spotted Lanternfly egg mass

Do you have a specimen?

If you think that you have found a spotted lanternfly, you can take a specimen to your local Virginia Cooperative Extension office.

Do you have a picture?

If you only have a picture or would rather submit a picture, please use this link: https://ask.extension.org/groups/1981/ask

* Be sure to include a street address and email address.