Spotted Lanternflies Sighted In Parsippany

PARSIPPANY, NJ — A few Parsippany residents reported sightings of the spotted lanternfly, according to the township. The insect has been of great concern in New Jersey because of its potential to significantly impact agricultural crops and hardwood trees.

Spotted lanternflies feed on the sap of plants such as grapevines, maples, Tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima), black walnut and other important plants in New Jersey. While it doesn't harm humans or animals, it can reduce the quality of life for people in highly infested areas, according to officials.

The spotted lanternfly is an invasive species native to China, India and Vietnam. It was first discovered in the United States in Berks County, Pennsylvania, on a shipment and has since spread to eight other states, including New Jersey.

Officials first detected New Jersey populations in 2019. As a result, the New Jersey Department of Agriculture issued an eight-county quarantine: Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, Hunterdon, Mercer, Salem, Somerset and Warren.

If you see a spotted lanternfly, the Department of Agriculture wants you to stomp it out.

"We are asking people to destroy the spotted lanternfly if possible when they see it," said department spokesperson Jeff Wolfe. "Then go to www.badbug.nj.gov and click on the spotted lanternfly photo, and click on the Report A Sighting link and fill out the form. That is very helpful to us. The website also has links for resources for homeowners and business owners, which include treatment options."

Those in quarantined areas should inspect vehicles for spotted lanternflies and inspect outdoor items, such as packing bins, firewood, paving stones and lawn equipment for egg masses, according to the New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station of Rutgers University.

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