Michigan agriculture officials have identified a spotted lanternfly population in Berrien County, which is a major grape-producing region in the state.
Although the infestation was not found in a vineyard, officials are urging producers to remain vigilant and squish the pest.
While the pest does not kill plants, heavy infestations can can stress vegetation and cause damage to nearby crops.
"Tree-of-heaven, grapevines and hops are among spotted lanternfly's preferred hosts," MSU professor Rufus Isaacs said. "Growers should report any spotted lanternfly detections through the Michigan DNR's Eyes in the Field tool or to their local MSU Extension office."
In addition to the Berrien County spotted lanternfly detection, a new population of spotted lanternfly was also recently confirmed in Washtenaw County, which borders counties with previously confirmed populations.
As of September 2026, spotted lanternfly populations have been confirmed in Berrien, Jackson, Lenawee, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, Washtenaw and Wayne counties.
Right now, the nymphs are black with white spots. But at any time now through September, they'll take on the distinct red coloration and grow to about an inch long and one-half inch wide. In the adult stage, you may not see the flash of red until they take flight. While resting, the grayish forewings with black spots cover the colorful hindwings.
An adult female can lay a couple of egg masses, each containing 30 to 60 eggs, allowing populations to grow exponentially, so it's important to kill them before they can establish another generation of the pests.
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