My initial instinct is to give Mary Greendale credit for this! In Mid-September, Mary pointed out that Western Massachusetts had sightings of the spotted lanternfly. Specifically, UMass Amherst reported this invasive species was spotted in Holyoke, Agawam, and Southborough, MA, which are in addition to those known previously in Fitchburg, Shrewsbury, Worcester, and Springfield, MA.

Sometimes life gets in the way, and while we thought it was important to inform people about this, it sort of got away from us. However, more recently (specifically on October 19) there was yet another sighting, far too close to home. This time, WCVB television reported that this pest was spotted in Wellesley. You can read more about the story by visiting their website using this link to the spotted lanternfly story.

It’s important to remember that this pest is invasive and tends to swarm. Typically, these bugs cause damage to trees and other woody plants. They also love attacking fruit trees and grape vines. While they die off quickly after a hard frost, their eggs remain in hibernation through the winter meaning they could be even worse come spring.

If you want to learn more about how you, as a property owner can protect yourself, use this helpful resource from MDAR’s Spotted Lanternfly Management Guide for Homeowners in Infested Areas. You should also notify the proper authorities if you do see them. Please  take a photo or collect the specimen and report the sighting using MDAR’s online reporting form