Spotted Lanternfly FAQ: What Homeowners Need to Know

Spotted lanternflies continue to spread throughout New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, and other parts of the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. Since first appearing in the United States in 2014, these invasive pests have become a major threat to trees, vineyards, landscaping, and agriculture.

Although spotted lanternflies do not bite or sting humans, their large populations and destructive feeding habits can severely damage plants and trees around homes and businesses.

This spotted lanternfly FAQ answers common questions about identification, egg masses, damage, prevention, and professional control options.

What Is a Spotted Lanternfly?

The spotted lanternfly is an invasive planthopper originally native to Asia. In the United States, it has spread rapidly due to a lack of natural predators.

Spotted lanternflies feed by piercing plants and trees with straw-like mouthparts and extracting sap. Heavy feeding weakens plants and contributes to long-term damage.

These pests commonly affect:

• Fruit trees
• Grapevines
• Maple trees
• Walnut trees
• Ornamental landscaping
• Hardwood trees

Their preferred host plant is the invasive Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima).

What Does a Spotted Lanternfly Look Like?

Spotted lanternflies change appearance throughout their life cycle.

Nymph Stage

Young spotted lanternflies begin as small black nymphs with white spots. As they mature, they develop red coloration while remaining wingless.

Nymphs are strong jumpers and are commonly seen during spring and early summer.

Adult Stage

Adult spotted lanternflies are about one inch long and feature:

• Gray forewings with black spots
• Bright red hindwings
• Yellow abdomen with black bands
• Black legs and head

Adults typically appear from late summer through fall.

What Do Spotted Lanternfly Egg Masses Look Like?

Spotted lanternfly egg masses are often mistaken for mud splatters or patches of dried cement.

Egg masses are usually:

• Grayish-brown in color
• About one inch long
• Found on smooth surfaces
• Covered with a protective coating

Common egg-laying locations include:

• Tree trunks
• Outdoor furniture
• Decks
• Fences
• Sheds
• Rocks
• Vehicles and trailers

Each egg mass may contain approximately 30–50 eggs.

When Do Spotted Lanternflies Lay Eggs?

In the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, spotted lanternflies typically begin laying eggs in September and continue through late fall.

Egg masses overwinter and hatch during late April, May, and early June.

What Is the Spotted Lanternfly Life Cycle?

The spotted lanternfly life cycle follows a seasonal pattern:

• Eggs: October through May
• Early nymphs: May through July
• Red nymph stage: July through August
• Adults: August through November
• Egg laying: September through November

Understanding this cycle helps homeowners target prevention and removal efforts more effectively.

Do Spotted Lanternflies Bite Humans?

No. Spotted lanternflies do not bite or sting people or pets.

Although they have piercing mouthparts used to feed on plants, these mouthparts are not strong enough to penetrate human skin.

If a spotted lanternfly lands on someone, the sensation usually comes from its legs rather than a bite.

Are Spotted Lanternflies Dangerous?

Spotted lanternflies are not dangerous to humans, but they can cause serious damage to trees, plants, and agriculture.

How They Damage Plants

Spotted lanternflies feed by removing sap from plants and trees. Excessive feeding can weaken plants, cause wilting, and contribute to long-term decline.

Industries particularly affected include:

• Vineyards and wineries
• Orchards
• Forestry
• Landscaping

Honeydew and Sooty Mold

As lanternflies feed, they excrete a sugary waste substance called honeydew. This sticky residue promotes the growth of black sooty mold and attracts additional pests like ants and wasps.

Honeydew can accumulate on:

• Patios
• Decks
• Outdoor furniture
• Vehicles
• Sidewalks

Do Birds, Chickens, or Spiders Eat Spotted Lanternflies?

Spotted lanternflies have very few natural predators in the United States.

Some predators occasionally observed feeding on them include:

• Spiders
• Praying mantises
• Wheel bugs

Although some birds may sample spotted lanternflies, most do not appear to eat them consistently. Even chickens often avoid eating them.

Because natural predation is limited, spotted lanternfly populations can grow rapidly.

How Do I Kill Spotted Lanternflies?

If you see spotted lanternflies on your property, early action is important.

Destroy Egg Masses

One of the most effective ways to reduce future populations is removing egg masses before they hatch.

To remove egg masses:

1. Scrape eggs into a container or plastic bag
2. Add rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer
3. Seal and dispose of the bag properly

Egg scraping is most effective during fall, winter, and early spring.

Kill Adults When Possible

Homeowners are encouraged to kill adult spotted lanternflies whenever possible by stomping or crushing them.

Because they jump quickly, approaching from the front often works best.

Use Traps Carefully

Sticky bands and tree traps may help reduce local activity, but precautions should be taken to avoid trapping birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects.

What Is a Spotted Lanternfly Quarantine?

Spotted lanternfly quarantine zones are designated areas where regulations help limit the spread of the pest.

Residents and businesses in quarantine areas are encouraged to inspect items before transport, including:

• Vehicles
• Outdoor equipment
• Firewood
• Landscaping materials
• Furniture and trailers

These precautions help reduce accidental spread to unaffected areas.

Professional Spotted Lanternfly Control

Large infestations often require professional treatment to reduce populations effectively and protect landscaping.

Professional spotted lanternfly services may include:

• Egg mass inspections
• Targeted tree treatments
• Seasonal knockdown applications
• Property monitoring
• Prevention strategies

Viking Pest Control provides professional spotted lanternfly control services for homes and businesses throughout New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland.

Protect Your NJ, PA, MD, & DE Property From Spotted Lanternflies

Spotted lanternflies continue to spread throughout the region, making early detection and prevention more important than ever.

If you’re seeing spotted lanternflies or egg masses around your property, professional treatment can help minimize damage to trees, landscaping, and outdoor spaces.

Learn more about Viking Pest Control and request a free estimate for spotted lanternfly treatment today.