Community Corner
Seen A Spotted Lanternfly In The Hudson Valley? Kill It!
The invasive species has been "spotted" in New York City and elsewhere in the region.
TARRYTOWN, NY — Nature's a wonderful thing, don't you think? But there is one creature that has made its way to the Hudson Valley, and if you see it, you should kill it.
In a newsletter from the village of Tarrytown, officials said the spotted lanternfly has been seen in Hastings-on-Hudson.
These creatures, while striking in appearance, pose a serious economic threat in New York, because they devastate such crops as apples, hops as well as various tree species.
Find out what's happening in Tarrytown-Sleepy Hollowfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
If you think you've spotted this fly, email the state Department of Agriculture and Markets and let them know where you saw it and at what stage of life it was. Include photos if you can.
Spotted Lanternfly is easy to identify due to its unique spots and bright coloration. This insect will prey upon hundreds of species of plants but prefers the invasive Tree-of-heaven to lay eggs and complete its lifecycle. When in doubt, report it! #AugustTreeCheckMonth pic.twitter.com/hpuWMo4ng5
— WA Invasives (@WAinvasives) August 19, 2021
You can find out more about the spotted lanternfly in this FAQ. It includes photos of the creature in various stages of development.
Find out what's happening in Tarrytown-Sleepy Hollowfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Ag & Markets also has a survey you can fill out if you think you've seen the lanternfly.
Collecting a specimen would be helpful, but the Tarrytown officials said you should kill any spotted lanternflies you see, especially as egg-laying season begins in September.
The invasive species has recently been seen in Manhattan.
Read more about the spotted lanternfly here.
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