State Agricultural Officials ask Public to be on Alert for Hatching of Invasive Spotted Lanternfly Eggs

Potential for egg masses to have been accidentally brought in on nursery stock imported from other states
SLF Egg Mass

In a press release on Monday, May 23, 2022, the Massachusetts Department of Agriculture (MDAR) urged the public to keep an eye out for an invasive pest known as the Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula). There is a risk of egg masses for these invasive insects having been accidentally brought in on shipments of trees imported from other states. This risk comes following reports that infested nursery stock may have been sent to Massachusetts growers.MDAR urges anyone who has recently purchased trees or shrubs, or had them planted on their property, to inspect the trunk and branches to ensure there are no Spotted Lanternfly egg masses (like the one seen in the attached photo) or hitchhiking nymphs. If you do find evidence of the Spotted Lanternfly, report these findings to MDAR. Landscapers and plant nurseries should also stay on the lookout for the insect.

For more information and additional photos of egg masses and nymphs, you can view the official press release here.

To learn more about the Spotted Lanternfly, how to identify it, or to report findings to MDAR, please visit this page.

For information about MDAR, please visit this page.

If you have any questions, you can reach out to the Conservation Agent via email (conscom@townofnewbury.org) or phone (978-465-0862, ext 310), or stop in to the Town Hall located at 12 Kent Way, Suite 101 in Byfield.