Large Infestation Of 'Invasive Pest' Reported In Southport

SOUTHPORT, CT — A disruptive invasive insect has come to Southport in droves, with another infestation in nearby Westport, according to state officials.

“The largest population reported to date” of young spotted lanternfly was found on tree of heaven in Southport, according to a recent news release from the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, which also noted a few adults were found.

Native to China, India and Vietnam, the spotted lanternfly — an invasive sap-feeding plant-hopper — was discovered in Pennsylvania in 2014. Infestations have been reported up and down the East Coast, and as far inland as Ohio. In 2020, adult populations were detected in Greenwich, New Canaan and Stamford. Another population was found in Norwalk in July 2021.

“These detections of the spotted lanternfly indicate that this insect is expanding in Fairfield County and raises major concerns for Connecticut’s agriculture,” state entomologist Dr. Kirby Stafford said in the news release, which noted further detections are likely.

The spotted lanternfly attacks many hosts and has the potential to severely impact Connecticut’s farm crops, particularly apples, grapes and hops, as well as several tree species. The secretion of excess sap called honeydew can also be a nuisance for homeowners.

The nymphal stage of the insect is currently active, with adults appearing in late summer. In fall, adults about 1 inch long can often be found congregating on tree of heaven, willows and other trees. The spotted lanterfly will lay egg masses on trees, and almost any nearby surface, such as rocks, decks, houses, outdoor equipment and furniture. Nymphs, or immature insects, will hatch from the eggs in the spring.

Surveys will be conducted by state and federal plant inspectors in the area where the spotted lanterfly were recently detected to determine the extent of the infestation.

“The public is urged to report potential sightings of this invasive pest,” the news release said.

Those who suspect they have seen a spotted lanternfly should take a picture of it, collect it if possible, and report it to ReportSLF@ct.gov. More information is available at portal.ct.gov/CAES/CAPS/CAPS/Spotted-Lanternfly---SLF.