Invasive Spotted Lanternflies Have Returned to 17 States — Here’s Where and How to Keep Them from ‘Becoming a Summer Nuisance’

Invasive Spotted Lanternflies Have Resurfaced in 17 States in 2025

In a concerning development, spotted lanternflies, which are invasive planthoppers, have once again started to reappear across the United States. Reports indicate that as of April 11, these destructive insects and their egg masses have been identified in 17 states in 2025, as revealed by a World Population Review tracker. The affected states include Arizona, Connecticut, Delaware, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, and West Virginia.

Authorities are sounding the alarm and calling on residents in these states to be vigilant and take action to combat the spread of the invasive lanternflies. Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary, Russell Redding, along with officials in other states, has urged the public to proactively seek out and eliminate lanternfly eggs before they hatch as the temperatures warm up this spring. This proactive step can help prevent these insects from causing significant damage to important industries such as grape and nursery production.

During a press release in April 2025 that announced the increased sightings of spotted lanternflies, Secretary Redding emphasized the importance of individual efforts in controlling the spread of these pests. He highlighted the impact of destroying the egg masses, stating that each mass removed translates to averting the emergence of 30 to 50 destructive insects in May. This simple yet effective method of scraping and squashing the egg masses can be carried out on various surfaces, including trees, rocks, vehicles, equipment, and outdoor furniture.

The spotted lanternfly, believed to have originated from Asia over a decade ago, poses a significant threat to crops and disrupts local ecosystems. The insects have a wide diet range, feeding on plants like grapes, hops, stone fruits, and hardwood trees, as highlighted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Moreover, their excretion of a sticky substance can lead to the growth of a damaging sooty mold that further harms plants in the affected areas.

Residents concerned about lanternfly infestations can refer to the Department of Agriculture’s spotted lanternfly guide for information on preventive measures and treatment options. By staying informed and actively participating in efforts to eradicate these pests, individuals can contribute to safeguarding local ecosystems and industries from the detrimental effects of the invasive spotted lanternflies.

As communities grapple with the resurgence of spotted lanternflies in various states, it is imperative for residents to remain vigilant and take necessary steps to mitigate the impact of these invasive insects. By raising awareness about the threats posed by the lanternflies and encouraging proactive measures to control their spread, officials aim to protect vital industries and preserve the biodiversity of the affected regions.

The continued monitoring and management of spotted lanternflies serve as a reminder of the importance of environmental stewardship and collaborative action in addressing invasive species that pose risks to ecosystems and economies. Through collective efforts and individual contributions, communities can work towards effectively managing and minimizing the impact of invasive species like the spotted lanternflies in vulnerable regions.

In conclusion, the reappearance of spotted lanternflies in 17 states underscores the ongoing challenge of invasive species management in the United States. By heeding the advice of officials, being proactive in combating the spread of these insects, and staying informed about best practices, residents can play a crucial role in safeguarding their local environments and industries from the threats posed by these destructive pests.