Keep An Eye Out, This Nasty Bug May Be In Maine

Trees purchased from Pennsylvania and then planted planted in Boothbay, Freeport, Northeast Harbor, and Yarmouth, had egg masses of the spotted lanternfly on them, and that's not good.

The spotted lanternfly is "an invasive sap-feeding insect from Asia, that attacks over 100 species of trees, shrubs, and vines, and has the potential to impact a broad range of agricultural commodities, including apples, peaches, grapes/wine, maple syrup, as well as the ornamental nursery industry", according to a recent Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry press release.

So far, the spotted lanternfly has not been found in Maine, and state officials would like to keep it that way.  But, they're concerned.

“These most recent finds call attention to the fact that there are many ways that spotted lanternfly can travel here from other states," said State Horticulturist, Gary Fish.

Maine agricultural officials are asking that you check stuff shipped from out of state for egg masses left behind by the spotted laternfly or the bugs themselves.  Carefully look over any trees or shrubs purchased for landscaping, and stuff like outdoor furniture.  The egg masses are usually left behind on a flat surface of some kind.

If you happen to find one of these sap sucking insects or it's eggs, then the state would love to see some evidence.  Take a photo or collect a specimen and then get in touch via  bugwatch@maine.gov.

For more information about this bug that so far has never been in Maine, visit the state's website about the ever so uncool spotted lanternfly.