Spotted Lanternfly Invades Jenkintown

Spotted Lanternfly

First the stinkbug, and now this.

Representative Steve McCarter’s office issued a statement yesterday alerting residents to the presence of the spotted lanternfly in Jenkintown.

Yesterday on the Jenkintown Community Group page, Jenkintown resident Aly Lester reported seeing on on her property and had alerted the county.

According to Rep. Steve’s announcement:

Native to Asia, the spotted lanternfly was first discovered in the United States in Berks County in 2014. It has since spread throughout 13 counties – including Montgomery County – in southeastern Pennsylvania, three counties in New Jersey, plus Frederick County in Virginia. There have been confirmed identifications in Upper Dublin Township, Flourtown, Ambler, Wyndmoor and now in Jenkintown.

The fly, which doesn’t bite, sting or attack animals or humans, feeds on the sap of more than 70 plants, including important forestry and agricultural crops. It can cause significant damage and, for homeowners, be a huge nuisance.

For more information about this yet-another Asian invader and its management, click here.