Spotted lanternflies hanging around with warm temperatures

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management said invasive spotted lanternflies are here to stay, but the biggest goal is to prevent them from invading agricultural areas.

The recent warmer temperatures have contributed to the populations sticking around in Southern New England.

“This year we have noticed quite a spread. I think the same goes for Massachusetts and Connecticut, as well,” said Cynthia Kwolek, RIDEM Senior Environmental Planner.

All across the region, you may see a spotted lanternfly.

“It is evident that they are spreading. We have noticed that their season has been extended with the warmer temperatures. They stop at the first hard freeze. So a frost will absolutely slow them down but they need a good hard freeze to stop their season,” added Kwolek.

The impact on the state is the harming of agriculture settings like orchards and vineyards.

“The biggest problems are in agricultural settings, especially vineyards. They love to feed on grapevines. With feeding on grapevines, they end up depleting the grape’s resources and hindering the yield amount-yield has been a lot smaller in places that have spotted lantern fly,” explained Kwolek.

The department said right now is the time for spotted lanternflies to lay eggs — and people can do something about it.

“That is another thing people should be keeping their eyes out for this time of year, as they are laying them. If you do find an egg mass, you can scrape it off your tree,” Kwolek said.

The department encouraged people to report any sightings of the spotted lanternfly around the state.

You can send a picture to the department, which helps experts understand where exactly the insect populations are growing.