The Spotted Lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula is a new pest to the United States. This invasive planthopper, initially discovered in in Berks County, Pennsylvania in 2014 is native to Southeast Asia and poses a threat to forests, ornamental trees, orchards, vegetables, grapes, hops and other agricultural commodities. Since its initial discovery in Pennsylvania it has spread to infest portions of 13 counties of that state, recently it has been discovered in New Jersey in Warren, Hunterdon and Mercer Counties. The New Jersey Department of Agriculture has recently enacted a state quarantine in these counties to restrict the movement of this insect to un-infested areas of the state. All other life stages of this insect, from nymphs to adults can fly, hop, or drop right into or onto vehicles – meaning that vehicles and equipment can easily and quickly help it spread.

Sightings of this insect can be made to SLF-plantindustry@ag.nj.gov or by calling the New Jersey Spotted Lanternfly Hotline at 1-833-223-2840 (BADBUG0) and leave a message detailing sighting and contact information.