The spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is an invasive pest in North America, posing a significant threat to agricultural crops and various trees. Native to parts of China and Vietnam, it was first detected in Pennsylvania in 2014 and has since spread rapidly. Its distinctive appearance includes black and white spotted nymphs and adults with grey forewings and red hind wings. Spotted lanternflies damage plants by feeding on sap, leading to oozing wounds and the excretion of honeydew. This honeydew promotes black sooty mold, which hinders plant photosynthesis and attracts other insects.
Do Birds Eat Lanternflies?
Birds have been observed consuming spotted lanternflies. However, this behavior is not universal across all bird species, nor does it appear to be a primary food source for most. Observations of birds preying on lanternflies are ongoing, and research continues to explore the extent of this natural predation. While some individual birds may readily consume them, it is not a consistent or widespread feeding habit that significantly impacts large lanternfly populations.
Factors Influencing Bird Predation
Several factors contribute to why some birds eat spotted lanternflies while others do not. One deterrent is the lanternfly’s bright warning coloration, known as aposematism, which signals unpalatability or toxicity. This warning is often linked to their diet; when they feed on the invasive tree of heaven (Ailanthus altissima), they can sequester bitter-tasting compounds, such as ailanthone. These compounds make lanternflies taste unpleasant, and some birds have even been observed vomiting after consuming them.
Low nutritional value also plays a role, as lanternflies have relatively low content compared to other insect prey. Birds often prioritize more nutritious food sources, making lanternflies less attractive. Research suggests birds prefer lanternflies that have not fed on the tree of heaven, indicating the host plant influences the insect’s palatability.
Observed Bird Species
Despite the deterrents, various bird species have been observed consuming spotted lanternflies. These include:
Northern Cardinals
Gray Catbirds
Blue Jays
Tufted Titmice
Great Crested Flycatcher
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Eastern Bluebird
Chickens have also been noted to eat lanternflies. While birds do prey on lanternflies, the frequency and impact of such predation vary among species and individual birds.
Other Natural Predators
Beyond birds, other natural predators contribute to spotted lanternfly control in North America. Insect predators like praying mantises (Carolina and Chinese) consume lanternflies across different life stages. Spined soldier bugs also prey on lanternflies. Other observed insect predators include wheel bugs, orbweaver spiders, and yellowjackets.
In the spotted lanternfly’s native range, specific parasitic wasps play a significant role in population regulation. Anastatus orientalis is an egg parasitoid that can parasitize a high percentage of lanternfly egg masses. Another wasp, Dryinus sinicus, targets and parasitizes lanternfly nymphs. While these specialized wasps are being studied for potential release as biological control agents in the United States, their introduction requires extensive research to ensure they do not negatively impact native species. Additionally, certain fungal entomopathogens, such as Beauveria bassiana, have been identified as natural controls.
Their Role in Population Management
While birds and other generalist predators contribute to spotted lanternfly control, their predation alone is generally insufficient for widespread infestations. The level of predation by native species is typically insufficient to significantly reduce lanternfly numbers in heavily infested areas. Natural predation is one component of a broader integrated pest management strategy. Management efforts often involve human intervention, such as scraping egg masses, using traps, and targeted insecticide applications. Removing the invasive tree of heaven, which makes lanternflies distasteful, could encourage bird activity and potentially increase avian predation. A comprehensive approach combining various control methods is necessary to mitigate the economic and ecological impact of the spotted lanternfly.