The invasive spotted lanternfly has infested half the cities and towns in Massachusetts

The invasive spotted lanternfly has infested more than half the cities and towns in Massachusetts, according to data gathered by the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources. The sap-sucking insect native to parts of China and Vietnam arrived in Massachusetts in late 2020, and its population has grown exponentially since. MDAR found four new infestations in 2021, 12 in 2022, 43 in 2023, and last year, the department confirmed 65 new areas with the spotted lanternfly. MDAR announced the latest number of communities with the pest at a quarterly spotted lanternfly meeting on Nov. 4. The state agency confirmed 78 new communities this year, bringing the total to 186 known infestations. “At this point, it’s here,” Spotted Lanternfly Survey Technician Astra Perkins said. The species leaves behind a sticky, sweet substance called honeydew, which can cover surfaces and attract stinging insects. In agricultural areas, the spotted lanternfly feeds on grapevines, berries and hops.

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