From Winged Invaders Managing Threats to Georgia Forests

Owning property in Georgia provides plenty of opportunity, whether you’re managing timber, cultivating crops, or simply enjoying the outdoors. But with that opportunity comes responsibility, especially when it comes to invasive species that threaten both native ecosystems and agricultural productivity. One invader currently affecting Georgia landowners is the Spotted Lanternfly. Identifying, monitoring, and reporting this pest can help protect Georgia’s Forests.

The Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) is a relatively new threat in Georgia, first confirmed in Fulton County in October of 2024. Native to Asia, this planthopper has made its way across the U.S., causing serious damage to vineyards, fruit trees, hardwoods, and ornamentals. While it does not directly harm people or pets, it feeds on plant sap and excretes a sticky substance known as honeydew, which encourages mold growth and further weakens plants. The insect can be identified at several stages: young nymphs are black with white spots, while later instars turn red with white and black markings. Adult lanternflies are about an inch long with gray wings covered in black spots, and vivid red underwings visible when flying.

If you see a Spotted Lanternfly on your property, it’s essential to act quickly. Take a photograph to document the insect, kill the insect if possible to help slow its spread, and report your sighting through the Georgia Department of Agriculture’s online portal https://www.gainvasives.org/slf/report/. These early reports are critical in helping researchers and agencies map infestations and deploy management strategies before the pest becomes widespread.

Blog post by Paul McDaniel, GFC Forest Health Coordinator