If you’ve ever seen or heard of a creature called a spotted lanternfly, you should know it’s not something to dismiss or ignore. This year, Ohio saw its very first documented case of this destructive and invasive species. The Ohio Department of Agriculture warns that this odd-looking insect is important to pay attention to. Here’s what you need to know if you happen to spot a spotted lanternfly in Ohio.

The spotted lanternfly is a potentially destructive and invasive species that's recognizable by its oddly colored wings of contrasting patches of red and black.
USGS Bee Inventory and Monitoring Lab/Flickr
Immature lanternflies are black with white spots. As they grow, they develop red patches.
At about 1 inch long and a half inch wide, these insects can be somewhat alarming to spot due to their unusual appearance.
U.S. Department of Agriculture/Flickr
The spotted lanterfly doesn't exactly fly. They can jump and glide up to 25 - 35 yards.

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The first spotted lanterfly in Ohio was found in the town of Mingo Junction along the Ohio River by a shop owner in late November of 2020.
cmh2315fl/Flickr
Although the spotted lanterfly is native to Asia, it feeds on the Ailanthus tree, which is also native to Asia but is often found near cleared right of ways of railroad tracks throughout the U.S. With several railroad tracks in Mingo Junction, the railroad is likely where the spotted lanternfly came from.
What's the harm in this potentially invasive species? There are several crops, plants and trees spotted lanterflies are known to feed on, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
U.S. Department of Agriculture/Flickr
Overtime, an increase in their population can lead to significant damage.
If you happen to spot a spotted lanternfly, the Ohio Department of Agriculture is asking people to kill them and report sightings.
U.S. Department of Agriculture/Flickr
To report a spotted lanterfly sighting, you can call the Ohio Department of Agriculture at (614) 728-6400, email the agency at plantpest@agri.ohio.gov or fill out a form online via the Ohio Department of Agriculture's website.

Have you ever seen a spotted lanternfly in Ohio? Did you know how destructive they can be? Share your thoughts and experiences with us!

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