The spotted lanternfly, an invasive insect, has expanded its range across North America. This planthopper poses a threat to various agricultural crops and trees, including grapevines, fruit trees, and hardwoods. Managing this pest depends on early detection and intervention, particularly during its overwintering egg stage. Recognizing and removing these egg masses can reduce the population of future generations.
Identifying Lanternfly Egg Masses
Spotted lanternfly egg masses appear as a grayish-brown, mud-like substance. When first laid, the protective covering is white and glossy, but it quickly dries to a dull gray or yellowish-brown, eventually cracking. These masses are oval-shaped, measuring 1 to 1.5 inches long and about 0.75 inches wide. Each egg mass can contain between 30 to 60 eggs, which are laid in segmented rows and covered by this substance.
Distinguishing these egg masses from similar natural occurrences is important for identification. They can be confused with mud splatters, lichen, or other insect egg masses. Unlike spotted lanternfly egg masses, spongy moth egg masses have a buff or yellowish, fuzzy coating and may show tiny holes from parasitic wasp activity. Wheel bug egg masses lack the protective covering entirely, while mantis egg cases are larger and have a flaky texture with distinct internal cells. If the egg mass has already hatched, small, oval holes may be visible where the nymphs emerged, or the seed-like eggs might be exposed if the covering has worn away.
Common Locations for Egg Masses
Spotted lanternfly females are not particular about where they deposit their egg masses, laying them on any hard outdoor surface. Common sites include the trunks and branches of trees, especially smooth-barked species like maples and birches, and their preferred host, the tree-of-heaven. They choose protected areas on these surfaces, such as the undersides of limbs or in branch crotches.
Beyond trees, egg masses are found on human-made structures and objects. This includes outdoor furniture, stones, rocks, vehicles, firewood, grills, and trash cans. The insect’s tendency to lay eggs on such diverse surfaces contributes to its spread, as these items can be unintentionally transported to new locations. Therefore, inspecting any outdoor items before moving them, particularly from infested areas, is recommended.
What to Do Upon Discovery
If spotted lanternfly egg masses are found, removal and destruction are advised to manage their population. An effective method involves using a stiff tool, such as a credit card, putty knife, or a sturdy stick, to scrape the egg mass off the surface. Applying firm pressure during scraping helps to burst the eggs, ensuring their destruction.
After scraping, the egg masses should be disposed of in a manner that prevents hatching. A recommended approach is to scrape the material into a sealable plastic bag or container filled with rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer. Soapy water can also be used as a killing agent. Once sealed, the bag should be discarded in the trash. While smashing or burning egg masses are also options, ensure complete destruction. Many agricultural extension offices or state departments of agriculture also request that sightings be reported, with a photo and location details, to track the spread of this invasive species.