Local Update from Social Media
Local officials are urging Maryland residents to manage the spotted lanternfly, an invasive species, without resorting to harmful methods that could negatively impact the ecosystem. State biologists recommend avoiding sticky traps and insecticides, which can inadvertently harm beneficial wildlife. Instead, residents are encouraged to use circle traps to capture these pests and report sightings to aid in ongoing research efforts.
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This update was shared by Maryland DNR (@MarylandDNR) on X.
“It’s important to manage spotted lanternflies, an environmentally harmful invasive species. But methods to kill or stop the spread of these insects should not come at the cost of the ecosystem we’re trying to protect. State officials and biologists warn that many methods and products aimed at curtailing spotted lanternflies have unintended fatal consequences for other wildlife.
Don’t use sticky tape or glue traps. These traps—often placed on trees, balconies, or other outdoor areas—can negatively impact beneficial insects as well as birds and other animals. Similarly, insecticides are not a good bet. There are no insecticides that exclusively target spotted lanternflies (despite some products that are marketed as such), and over-using insecticides can kill pollinators, introduce harmful chemicals to your yard, and be detrimental to the nearby environment. It’s best to leave insecticides to professionals. Homemade mixtures with bleach, vinegar, dish soap, water, and salt will also do more harm than good.
Instead, fight against lanternflies without using chemicals or non-targeted traps. Circle traps, which can be purchased or built at home, are considered the best option. These nets can be placed on a tree of heaven, or another tree where many spotted lanternflies are seen. Circle traps capture spotted lanternflies as they climb up trees.
Double check before you squash—you don’t want to harm a lookalike insect. While officials are concerned about the spotted lanternfly’s effect on agriculture, the insect appears to be less destructive to street trees than once thought, and birds and other predators are learning to eat them.
You can also help spotted lanternfly research in Maryland by reporting sightings anywhere in the state, including Cecil and Harford counties. The @MdAgDept is collecting data on these sightings to inform future management. Report a sighting or email dontbug.md@maryland.gov for questions or more management tips.
Report here: https://t.co/u3M4Pah80a”
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