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The spotted lanternfly population has exploded in Huntingdon County recently, with reports in a number of locations, including Huntingdon Borough.

The spotted lanternfly population has exploded in Huntingdon County recently, with reports in a number of locations, including Huntingdon Borough.

The spotted lanternfly population has exploded recently in Huntingdon County. Residents can’t go more than a couple of blocks without spotting the invasive species.

According to the spotted lanternfly coordinator for the Huntingdon County Master Gardening Program, Julie Peoples, there are more spotted lanternflies.

“ have been watching them closely since 2019. At first there were low sightings reported but now people are calling in constantly. You can call 1-800-BADBUG to report any sightings,” said Peoples.

Peoples is concerned that if the spotted lanternfly situation does not get under control, the county could start to resemble other parts of the state that are completely dominated by the bug.

“The lanternfly population has gotten so bad in places like Lancaster. There are so many on trees and porches that it’s disgusting to go outside. The bugs are known to suck sap out and secrete honeydew,” she said. “It gets on people and furniture which can create a black mold. People aren’t going to want to go outside with swarms of bugs all over everything. They don’t hurt humans but they are annoying.”

Peoples wants residents to know what to do if they cross paths with the invasive species.

“If you see a bug, kill a bug,” she said.

The most important type of spotted lanternfly to kill are the pregnant ones according to Peoples.

“When you see one with a bright yellow belly, it’s a pregnant female,” she said. “They lay their eggs in a milky layer on a tree. You will see little rectangle eggs, normally a couple of hundred. Scrape them if you see them. Try and get them while they are dormant.”

Spotted lanternflies can be found in a variety of locations.

“They love telephone poles but eventually need food so they switch over to trees or plants. They like walnut trees and tender trees,” said Peoples. “They may not kill the other trees they cling to, but they make an opening for pathogens, bugs and fungus.”

Peoples hopes to one day use their favorite hangout against them.

“They are heavily drawn to tree of heaven, another invasive species. We would like to try and get rid of all of the those trees except for one and use it as a trap tree,” said Peoples.

The spotted lanternflies were first discovered in the United States in 2014.

“The bugs were originally discovered at the port of Philadelphia from a wood product shipment coming from China,” said Peoples. “They are leaf hoppers. They jump on trains and spread. We have tried to mitigate the situation but unfortunately railroads have separate rules and regulations they must abide by.”

Businesses that travel from Huntingdon County to outside areas can take a free course to know what to do if they see the bug and help prevent carrying them to new counties.

“It can be difficult for businesses to hear about this course because they don’t come knocking on your door,” said Peoples. “Every business in the county was identified, we had materials sent to every borough manager or secretary with more information.”

Joe can be reached at dnews@huntingdondailynews.com.

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A few clouds. A stray shower or thunderstorm is possible. Low 74F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph.

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