🚨 Invasion Alert: Spotted Lanternflies Are Here in Long Island! 🪰🍇🌳

If you live in Long Island, NY, there's a new pest in town—and it’s not just annoying, it’s destructive. Say hello (or not!) to the Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula), an invasive species that has made its way from Asia and is now spreading rapidly across the Northeast, including Suffolk and Nassau Counties. 😱

🧐 What Is a Spotted Lanternfly?

Despite its name, the spotted lanternfly isn’t a fly at all—it’s a planthopper, and it can hop and glide short distances. It has striking gray wings with black spots and a splash of bright red on its hindwings that makes it easy to identify.

Here’s what makes it a menace:

• 🚫 Feeds on over 70 plant species, including grapes, apples, maples, and your favorite ornamentals

• 🥀 Weakens and eventually kills plants by sucking sap

• 💩 Leaves behind a sticky substance called honeydew, which encourages mold growth

🚨 Why Long Islanders Should Care

The spotted lanternfly has recently been spotted across Long Island 🏝️, including towns like Huntington, Brookhaven, and even parts of the Hamptons. Their favorite host? The invasive Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima)—but they’re not picky. Your backyard could be next!

Impacts:

• 🏡 Damaged landscapes

• 🍇 Threats to vineyards and fruit trees

• 🌲 Long-term risk to hardwood forests

👀 How to Spot Them

Look for:

• 🐞 Egg masses: Mud-colored splotches laid on trees, rocks, patio furniture, and cars from late fall through spring

• 🪲 Nymphs: Black with white spots (early stage), then red and black with white spots

• 🦋 Adults: About 1 inch long, gray wings with black spots, red hindwings

📸 Take photos and report sightings to the NYS DEC https://www.dec.ny.gov

🧼 How to Fight Back in Your Long Island Yard

You don’t need to be an entomologist to help protect our ecosystem. Here's what you can do:

1. Squash Them 🥾

Yup, seriously. It’s one of the most effective methods. If you see them—step on them. Every single one counts!

2. Scrape Egg Masses 🥚🧽

Use a plastic card or scraper to remove egg masses and place them in a container with rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer.

3. Remove Tree of Heaven 🌳

If you have this invasive host tree in your yard, consider removing it or applying systemic insecticides. Work with a professional landscaper or arborist.

4. Use Sticky Bands with Guards 🟡

Wrap tree trunks with sticky tape to trap nymphs as they crawl. Use guards to protect birds and squirrels from getting stuck.

5. Avoid Transporting Firewood or Outdoor Gear 🚗

Check your car, trailer, firewood, and patio furniture before moving them. Egg masses are sneaky hitchhikers.

🙌 Community Action Is Key

If you live in Suffolk County, especially as a homeowner or real estate professional, educating your neighbors and clients is essential. The spotted lanternfly invasion isn't just an agricultural issue—it's a homeowner’s problem, too.

🛑 See it. Squash it. Report it. 🛑

🔗 Resources & Reporting

• 📲 Report sightings to NYS Agriculture & Markets: https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/e0a4b446d86b4f2eac85f2f2fbbc2f66

• 🧪 Learn more about treatment: Cornell Cooperative Extension

🏡 Final Thoughts

As a real estate expert in Suffolk County, NY, I know that a well-kept yard matters—not just for curb appeal, but for the health of our environment. Taking steps to combat invasive pests like the spotted lanternfly will protect not just your garden, but your community.

Let’s keep Long Island beautiful—and bug-free! 🌸🛠️🌿