Right now they’re hundreds of miles away, but experts say an invasive insect may soon hitch a ride to Michigan.
Spotted Lanternflies are native to southeast Asia, but, now, the bug has been spreading across the east coast.
They feed on different types of vegetation such as apples and trees, which can harm the plants. They also cause a sticky issue in people’s backyard.
“Apparently they make quite a mess,” said Howard Russell, an entomologist at MSU. “When they feed, they poop a lot of sugary tree sap out so according to people who live out there their excreting rains down on the trees to the point where people can’t be out in their yards.”
Russell said that over the past five years Spotted Lanternflies have been found in six or seven states. With the spread of the invasive species, he wants Michigan residents to be on the lookout.
“I don’t think it’s a question of if. I think it’s a question of when they show up,” Russell said.
If you find the bug the Department of Natural Resources asks that you take pictures if possible, record the location, try to collect them in a container and report it.
If you suspect an egg mass or other signs and symptoms, do not disturb them, take pictures and report the location.
All reports should go to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, MDA-Info@michigan.gov or call the MDARD Customer Service Center at 800-292-3939.