Why Spotted Lanternflies Are a Problem in Norfolk — And What You Can Do About It

Mosquito Squad is your trusted resource for spotted lanternfly control in Norfolk, and we’re here to share important information about how this problematic pest is causing issues in the area and throughout the country.

What Is a Spotted Lanternfly?

The spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is an invasive insect native to parts of Asia, including China and Vietnam. It was first identified in the United States in Pennsylvania in 2014 and has since spread rapidly. These pests are known for their striking appearance. Adults display grey wings with black spots and bright red hind wings and are considered quite beautiful by many. Nymphs, too, have a striking appearance: first black with white spots before maturing into a bright red,

Spotted lanternflies prefer to feed on the tree of heaven, a deciduous tree considered to be a noxious weed in most of the United States, but these pests are far from picky. They’ll feast on over 70 plant species, including grapevines, maples, and fruit trees, and their feeding does significant harm to the plants.

Why Are Spotted Lanternflies a Problem?

As an invasive species, spotted lanternflies have no natural predators here in the United States, and as a result, the population has exploded in size and continues to go unchallenged. They’re problematic for local ecosystems because their feeding habits weaken host plants and trees, which makes those plants more susceptible to disease and damage from other pests.

These pests are also notorious for the excretion of a sticky, sugary substance known as honeydew left behind while they are feeding. The honeydew promotes mold that can kill plant leaves and interfere with photosynthesis.

In addition to harming agriculture and forestry, their presence can become a public nuisance. Honeydew build-up on surfaces creates a sticky mess and draws stinging insects that cause further problems. Because they’ve spread so quickly and aggressively, they’re difficult to manage once they establish themselves in an area, so early detection and prompt action are important.

Why Is Norfolk, VA, Seeing More Spotted Lanternflies?

Spotted lanternflies spread primarily through human activity. Their egg masses are often laid on vehicles, shipping materials, and outdoor equipment, so humans frequently transport them accidentally. Because Norfolk is a major hub for commerce and travel, it's especially vulnerable to infestation.

Virginia has already seen the significant spread of these pests in nearby areas, and the environmental conditions in Norfolk, including mild winters, a variety of host trees, and ample transportation corridors, make it a suitable new habitat.

What Can I Do About Spotted Lanternflies in Norfolk, VA?

The first step in controlling spotted lanternflies is awareness. Be sure to check trees, vehicles, and outdoor items for egg masses in late fall through spring. These should be scraped into a container with alcohol or hand sanitizer and disposed of properly. During the summer months, monitor trees for nymphs and adults, particularly around grapevines, maples, and the tree of heaven.

Sticky bands can be used to trap nymphs, and targeted tree removal or insecticide treatments may help slow the spread. However, for comprehensive control, you’ll want to turn to an ally equipped with experience – that’s where Mosquito Squad comes in.

At Mosquito Squad of Hampton Roads, we can deliver spotted lanternfly control solutions that can be tailored to your property. Our Yard Defender pest package, for example, is designed to deter multiple types of pests, and it can help disrupt the lanternfly lifecycle at multiple stages. Doing so will reduce their presence and mitigate damage.

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For dependable outdoor pest control near you, call on the professionals at Mosquito Squad. Call (757) 300-1839 or contact us online for a complimentary Hampton Roads pest control assessment and quote.

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