These invasive pests are back, and in bigger numbers than before. 

The return of the spotted lanternfly on Long Island is bad news for trees, vineyards, and gardens across the region. These invasive pests, first spotted in New York several years ago, are now back in bigger numbers than before. Their spread threatens native plants and local agriculture, and controlling them depends heavily on what each of us does in our own yards and neighborhoods.

Spotted lanternflies feed by piercing plants and sucking out sap. They especially love grapes, maples, black walnut, and ailanthus (tree-of-heaven), but they will feed on many other trees and ornamentals. As they feed, they excrete a sticky substance called honeydew that coats leaves, decks, cars, and outdoor furniture. This honeydew encourages black sooty mold to grow, further weakening plants and making outdoor spaces unpleasant.

On Long Island, where vineyards, orchards, and ornamental landscapes are a big part of the local economy and lifestyle, this matters. Heavy infestations can stress or kill grapevines, damage landscape trees, and reduce the value and beauty of properties. While spotted lanternflies do not bite people or pets, their sheer numbers and mess make them a quality-of-life issue as well as an ecological one.

So What Can You Do to Kill or Control These Insects?

First, learn to recognize them in every life stage. In spring and early summer, look for nymphs: small, black insects with white spots that later develop red patches. By late summer and fall, adults appear, with gray forewings and bright red hind wings that show when they jump or fly. On Long Island, they are often found on tree-of-heaven, along roadsides, in parking lots, and around rail lines, but they can appear in any yard.

Next, destroy egg masses whenever you see them. From late fall through early spring, lanternflies lay tan, mud-like patches on tree trunks, outdoor furniture, stones, and even cars or trailers. Use a plastic card or putty knife to scrape the egg masses into a bag or container filled with rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer, then seal and dispose of it. Simply knocking them to the ground is not enough—they will still hatch.

If you see live nymphs or adults, kill them on sight. Stomping them, swatting them, or catching and crushing them are all effective. It may feel small, but every insect you kill is one less laying eggs and spreading. On frequently infested trees, you can use sticky bands, but use them carefully: narrow the band and cover most of the sticky area with a wildlife-safe guard or mesh to avoid trapping birds and beneficial insects.

Pruning or removing tree-of-heaven on your property is another powerful step. This invasive tree is a favorite host for spotted lanternflies. Work with a professional if the trees are large or close to structures, and follow local guidelines. Removing or reducing these host trees makes your property less attractive to lanternflies and can slow local population growth.

Chemical controls are available, but they should be used cautiously and ideally in consultation with local extension services or licensed professionals. Incorrect or unnecessary use of insecticides can harm beneficial insects, pollinators, and nearby waterways. Start with the least toxic, most targeted options, and always follow label directions exactly.

Finally, reporting sightings on Long Island helps experts track and manage the spread. Check your county or New York State guidance for where to submit photos and location details. Sharing accurate information supports coordinated efforts to protect vineyards, forests, and neighborhood trees.

The return of the spotted lanternfly is a serious challenge for Long Island, but it is not hopeless. By learning to recognize these insects, destroying egg masses, killing individuals when you see them, reducing tree-of-heaven, and reporting infestations, you can play a direct role in protecting the landscapes and local agriculture that make Long Island unique.