Identifying lanternflies is relatively easy. The adult wings are gray with black spots, while the underwings display a striking red and black pattern. The underwings measure about an inch in length.
Nymphs start their lives with black bodies adorned with white spots that eventually turn red as they mature. Their needle-like mouths are designed to slice through plants and suck out sap, draining the plants of their vitality.
If you spot a lanternfly, it’s important to take immediate action. Whether it’s an adult or a nymph, squash it on sight. For egg masses, you can eliminate them by scraping them into a bag with hand sanitizer or alcohol.
