When it comes to creepy crawlies, the first instinct is often to squash now and ask questions later. But in Pennsylvania, that quick reflex could backfire — especially when you’re dealing with an invader that’s as destructive as it is deceptive.
Meet the spotted lanternfly, the pest you should never squish.
1. Toxic Chemical Release
Spotted lanternflies contain natural chemical compounds that can be harmful when released. When crushed underfoot, these chemicals might splash onto your skin or clothing, potentially causing irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Children are especially vulnerable to these compounds. The safest approach involves using gloves if you must handle these insects, and washing your hands thoroughly afterward.
2. Staining Your Shoes And Clothes
Ever stepped on a berry in your Pennsylvania yard and ruined your favorite sneakers? Lanternflies create a similar mess! Their bodies contain pigments that can leave stubborn stains on shoes, clothing, and even concrete surfaces.
These colorful marks often resist normal washing and might require special cleaning products. Save yourself the hassle of scrubbing those new white shoes by avoiding the squish altogether.
3. Attracting More Pests
Squished lanternflies release scents that actually attract more of their kind! The crushed insect emits pheromones that signal to other lanternflies that this area is suitable habitat.
Think of it as ringing the dinner bell for their friends and family. By crushing one, you might inadvertently invite dozens more to your Pennsylvania yard or garden, creating an even bigger infestation problem than before.
4. More Effective Alternatives Exist
Stomping individual lanternflies barely makes a dent in controlling their population. Professional pest management strategies like targeted insecticides, tree banding, and egg scraping yield much better results against these invasive insects.
Pennsylvania local agricultural extensions often provide free resources on effective control methods. Your energy is better spent on these proven techniques rather than playing a never-ending game of stomp-the-bug.
5. Egg Masses Go Unaddressed
Female lanternflies can lay up to 50 eggs before you ever spot them! These egg masses, resembling grayish putty, often attach to trees, outdoor furniture, and even vehicles. Squishing adult insects does nothing to address this hidden threat.
Focusing on destroying egg masses during fall and winter months prevents hundreds of future lanternflies. One egg mass removed equals dozens of adults you won’t have to deal with later.
6. Research Specimens Needed
Scientists studying these invasive insects need intact specimens for their research! Many Pennsylvania state agricultural departments and universities actively collect lanternflies to study their biology, behavior, and potential vulnerabilities.
By capturing rather than crushing, you could contribute to scientific efforts. Check if your local extension office has a collection program where you can submit specimens, helping experts develop better control strategies for everyone.
7. Reporting Is More Valuable
Many states, including Pennsylvania track lanternfly spread through citizen reports. Taking a quick photo and submitting it to your state’s invasive species hotline provides valuable data about infestation boundaries and population density.
This information helps authorities deploy resources where they’re most needed. Your smartphone can become a powerful scientific tool in this fight! Simply download your state’s reporting app and become part of the solution.