Spotted Lanternfly: What to Do If You See One in Columbus Ohio

Where are Spotted Lanternflies from?

The Spotted Lanternfly is a plant hopper that is native to China, India, and Vietnam. It was first discovered in Pennsylvania in 2014 and has since spread to several other states, including Ohio. These pests are approximately one inch long and half an inch wide. They have gray bodies with black spots and red wings with black spots. They hold their wings roof-like over their bodies when they are at rest.

The Spotted Lanternfly feeds on the sap of trees, which can weaken and kill them. These pests are particularly fond of Tree-of-Heaven, but they will also feed on other types of trees, including maples, oaks, and pines - which are native to Ohio. In addition to causing damage to trees, the Spotted Lanternfly can also be a nuisance to humans. They are attracted to light, so they may congregate on porches and decks in search of food. 

The spotted lanternflies have no native predators in Ohio. That means it's essential that we do our part to identify, report, and help eradicate the eggs, nymphs, and adults when they are found to protect Ohio trees. 

What to do if you see a spotted lanternfly in Ohio

If you see a Spotted Lanternfly, it is important to report it to the Ohio Department of Agriculture. You can do this online at their website.

By being aware of the Spotted Lanternfly and what to do if you see one, you can help protect our trees from this invasive pest! If you identify black mold, or seeping sap on any of your trees, it could indicate disease or another sort of pest. Give Tree Pro Ohio a call to set up a consultation today!