The Natural Resources Commission (NRC) is asking residents to watch for and report any infestations of the spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula or “SLF”), an invasive insect that attacks trees and plants.
Wellesley received word this week from the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) of a confirmed infestation near Carisbrooke Reservation.
The spotted lanternfly was accidentally introduced to the U.S. in 2014 and has spread by hitchhiking on vehicles, nursery stock, sheds and other outdoor equipment.
SLF attacks another common invasive tree species in Wellesley called Tree of Heaven, but also threatens grapes, hops, and other agricultural commodities as well as native maples and other trees. The insects do not bite or sting, but swarm in large numbers and leave behind sticky honeydew.
Residents should become familiar with this pest, report any sightings, and check their property for SLF and its favorite host plants, tree-of-heaven and grape. Consider setting up traps, hiring someone to treat for SLF, or determine whether removing a tree-of-heaven on your property is possible. Use this homeowner guide for reference.
Watch this video for more information and practice the following four steps to minimize the impacts of this pest:
- INSPECT: Check trees and any other items on property that could have SLF adults, nymphs, or egg masses. Avoid parking under infested trees and inspect your vehicle before leaving your property.
- MONITOR: Identify all preferred host plants of spotted lanternfly (tree-of-heaven, grape, black walnut, birch, maple) on your property. Check them regularly for signs of spotted lanternfly, including egg masses.
- REPORT: If you find SLF or SLF egg masses, get a photo and report it to the MDAR reporting website: https://bit.ly/SLFreportMA
- MANAGE: There are several options for managing an SLF infestation on your property, depending on the level of infestation, the resources you have available, and whether you have host plants on your property.
For the latest updates visit the MDAR spotted lanternfly webpages and email any questions to slf@mass.gov