Update on SLF (Spotted Lantern Fly) in New Jersey
What Are They?
The SLF is an invasive planthopper native to South and East Asia that eventually made its way to other parts of the world, including the U.S. It was first discovered in Pennsylvania in 2014 and spread to Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, New York, Connecticut, Ohio and New Jersey.
What Do They Do?
While they pose no physical threat to humans and animals, they are super invasive and can wreak havoc on the ecosystem and the general outdoors - destroying trees and plants and leaving a nasty fungus. The SLF uses its piercing-sucking mouthpart to feed on sap from over 70 different plant species. While they do that, they excrete a sugary substance called honeydew that not only attracts other bugs but also can build up and promote a sooty mold that can cover plants, patio furniture, cars – anything it comes across.
Are they here in Jersey City?
Yup. With their red coat and black and grey polka dotted wings, the SLF is certainly not hard to spot. We know firsthand of sightings everywhere from Newport to McGinley Square to Hamilton Park to Caven Point and beyond. That said, Hudson County is not currently among the following 13 NJ counties under quarantine protocols for SLF. Those are Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, Hunterdon, Mercer, Salem, Somerset, Warren, Morris, Monmouth, Middlesex, Essex, and Union.
What does Quarantine Mean?
The NJ Department of Agriculture has issued guidelines for residents and businesses within the impacted Counties. For instance, they ask that people check their vehicles before leaving an area as the spotted lanternfly can apparently hitchhike for several miles. Businesses must obtain permits from the Department of Agriculture before moving stuff like landscaping waste and outdoor household goods, among other imposed regulations.
What Should We Do – Resources from the State
Per the State - If you see a Spotted Lanternfly, help us Stomp it Out!
First off, kill it.
Second, report it at https://www.nj.gov/agriculture/divisions/pi/prog/pests-diseases/spotted-lanternfly/#reporting-tool
or by calling 833-4BADBUG (833-422-3284).
Other questions, we can all email SLF-plantindustry@ag.nj.gov.