Spotted lanternfly (SLF) is an invasive insect originally from Asia, now spreading across several U.S. states, including Illinois (first found in Cook County in 2023). It damages host plants and trees by feeding on them, and its waste product, honeydew, encourages the growth of mold that harms the health of the host plant and is a nuisance to property owners.
Things to Know about SLF
- SLF is an invasive pest that feeds on a large variety of plant species, but prefers Tree of Heaven and wild grape vines.
- SLF cannot bite or sting. They feed on plant sap through a tiny, straw-like mouth part.
- SLF alone rarely kills plants and trees. It is more a nuisance pest to property owners.
- Everyone can play a role in minimizing the spread and impact of SLF.
- Slow the spread of SLF by checking your vehicle and any outdoor equipment (furniture, mowers, firewood, etc.) and destroying any found egg masses.
- Manage SLF on your property by a combination of physical, cultural, and chemical (if necessary) controls.
Where is SLF Found in Illinois
The majority of SLF report in Illinois are focused in the red area on the map. Infestations (egg masses, nymphs, adults) of SLF have been identified in a few locations as well as continued reporting of single adults. In the orange area, single adults have been reported in multiple locations. There has been no confirmation of infestations in that area, but we ask the public to continue to report, especially if they see SLF in large numbers.
How to Report
Take a photo and send a detailed email to: lanternfly@illinois.edu including when, where, and specifics of the location
Identification and Lifecycle
The SLF has one generation per year. Inconspicuous egg masses containing 30-50 eggs are laid by females on multiple surfaces, including tree bark, stones, and man-made structures, from September until early November. The eggs overwinter until the nymphs emerge the following year around late April or early May. Young SLF nymphs feed on tender plant tissue from a variety of plant host species, some staying in the canopy of the tree where they hatched, while others move to the ground and feed on the plants found there. There are four nymphal instars; once SLF reaches the fourth instar, it begins feeding on woody plant tissues from a narrower range of plant hosts. Adults emerge by late July and mating occurs in late August through the fall.
Impacts
Guidelines for Homeowners
State Information
Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture