Yes, we do sadly have a population in NYS  on Staten Island so upping the scouting game is important to prevent spread throughout the state.  In addition to Brian’s comments below, remember that Spotted lanternflies are great hitchhikers so check vehicles and other equipment before heading out.

Betsy

For the next few weeks, until hard frost hits, it is prime time to look for adult Spotted Lanternflies.  With the recent discovery of populations on Staten Island it is especially important for the NYC area, Long Island and the lower Hudson Valley.

Although they may be found on maple trees, grapevines and a variety of other host plants at this time of year, the Ailanthus tree is their favorite and that’s the first place I would look.

Because other trees, like walnuts, can look like it, I put images of Ailanthus here: https://cornell.box.com/v/AilanthusSLF

As a reminder:

Suspected cases can be entered here:  https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/a08d60f6522043f5bd04229e00acdd63

-or-

an email can be sent directly to: mailto:spottedlanternfly@agriculture.ny.gov