Spotted Lanternflies: A Shocking Expense To Havertown & Philadelphia Region Homeowners

Have you noticed unusually ornate-looking insects in your backyard lately? Perhaps you saw them crawling around on your deck or hanging out in trees. The odds are that spotted lanternflies have made their way to your property and decided to stay for a while, especially if you have a yard adorned with lush gardens and healthy plants and trees. These insects can cause extensive damage by feeding on the sap of plants, which is the lifeblood of these living organisms.

At Cunningham Pest Control, we provide the most effective pest control in Havertown to remove these types of insects and their eggs from your property. We understand the destruction these bugs can cause if left in your yard for too long. We arm our experienced team with the knowledge and resources to combat your spotted lanternfly problem before it takes a financial toll. Read further to learn about these insects and how professional pest control can assist.

What Does A Spotted Lanternfly Look Like?

Spotted lanternflies have an interesting appearance. Their length is equal to their width at about one inch. But it is their large and colorful wings that make them so unique. Their front wings are usually light brown but dotted with black spots, while their rear wings have contrasting black and red patches with a white stripe. A spotted lanternfly has a black head and legs, but its abdomen is typically yellow and flanked by several wide black bands. These insects are difficult not to notice or misidentify because of their distinctive appearance. If you see them around your yard, contact professional pest control immediately.

Stages Of A Spotted Lanternfly Infestation

The lifecycle of a spotted lanternfly consists of four nymphal stages before reaching the adult stage. So in total, a spotted lanternfly has five different life stages. These bugs molt to progress to each phase. The eggs overwinter and then hatch in the spring. That’s when the first tiny instar nymphs emerge and start to feed on plants immediately. In June or July, the second and third instar nymphs appear. Red coloring starts to appear by mid-July, representing their fourth instar phase before becoming pesky adults you don’t want near your home. Therefore, contact your local pest control to keep insects away outside.

The Damages Spotted Lanternflies Can Cause

Spotted lanternflies are an invasive insect species throughout Pennsylvania that feed primarily on the sap of plants. These bugs use their sucking-piercing mouthparts to consume sap from over 70 different species of plants. With such a healthy appetite for a wide variety of plants, there’s undoubtedly a tree in your yard that these insects will love. Here are a few of their favorites:

• Fruit trees
• Grapevines
• Maple trees
• Black walnut trees
• Willow trees

Without sap, your plants will deteriorate over time, resulting in irreparable damage if not addressed. Spotted lanternfly destruction can cost the Pennsylvania economy millions of dollars annually if not contained. That’s why proactive is so important when you notice these insects on your property. Contact experienced exterminators that specialize in eliminating spotted lanternflies.

Professional Pest Control For Havertown & Philadelphia Region Homeowners

Spotted lanternflies cause a considerable amount of destruction that should be addressed immediately by professionals in the pest management industry. They have the knowledge, background, and resources necessary to quickly eliminate all different kinds of insects that invade Havertown & Philadelphia region homes.

At Cunningham Pest Control, we’re committed to providing our customers with top-notch service that eliminates their pest problems. With customized treatment options, we make strategizing a suitable plan that meets your specific needs easy and hassle-free. Contact us today so we can get started.