Have you seen a bug like this in Georgia? Kill it, experts say
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - An invasive insect that’s a threat to agriculture has been spotted for the first time in Georgia.
The Georgia Department of Agriculture said Thursday a spotted lanternfly had been found in Fulton County.
It was found on Oct. 22 and confirmed Thursday by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Since being found in Pennsylvania in 2014, the insect has spread to 17 states, including Tennessee and North Carolina.
“We urge anyone who sees the spotted lanternfly in their area to document it, report it, and kill it,” Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper said.
You can report it online at https://www.gainvasives.org/slf/report/.
Although the bug doesn’t pose a direct threat to humans, it feeds on a variety of plants, including grapes, hops, stone fruits and hardwood trees.
Its feeding weakens these plants and produces a sticky, sugary fluid that encourages the growth of sooty mold, further harming crops.
Adult lanternflies die with the first hard frost, but their eggs remain viable throughout the winter.
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