The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has launched a campaign to stamp out the invasive spotted lantern fly…literally. DNR invasive species coordinator Joanne Foreman tells us the agency is advising residents who see the bug to “See it. Squish it. Report it.” So, what is the problem with the spotted lantern fly?
“It sucks sap out of trees and plants, and as it does so, it drops out what they call honey dew, which is a very sticky substance that can attract bees and wasps and also create mold and mildew on whatever surfaces the honey dew lands on, which could be plants or your deck,” Foreman said.
Foreman says that makes the bug a big nuisance. She advises anyone who sees the insect to squish it and then report it to the DNR. So far, the spotted lantern fly has only been found in Oakland County, but Foreman says it could be transported into new areas easily. You can find out more about the spotted lantern fly right here.
