Spotted lanternfly discovered in Monroe County, Michigan

(CBS) – Michigan state authorities announced that the spotted lanternfly was discovered in Monroe County.

According to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, officials confirmed that a small population of juvenile spotted lanternflies was discovered in Lambertville on June 17.

The juveniles, also called nymphs, are typically found in early summer, while the adult lanternflies are usually found in late summer.

“The infestation was discovered through spotted lanternfly surveillance traps set by Michigan State University (MSU) as part of joint survey initiatives with MSU, MDARD and USDA,” said Steve Carlson, director of the department’s Pesticides and Plant Pest Management Division. “This work is a critical part of our ongoing efforts to identify and contain the spread of the spotted lanternfly in Michigan.”

Officials advise residents Crush and report the insect.

Officials say the bug feeds on more than 70 different plants, including vines and deciduous trees. It can also suck sap from host plants and produce large amounts of a sticky liquid that kills plants and contaminates surfaces.

To prevent the spread of the insect, the Michigan Invasive Species Program launched its “See it. Squish it. Report” campaign last year.

How can you prevent the spread of the spotted lanternfly?

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has provided the following tips to prevent further spread of the insect.

• Check your vehicle: Inspect your vehicle for spotted lanternfly eggs or insects before you leave. Check doors, sides, bumpers, wheel wells, grilles, and roofs and destroy any eggs or insects you find.
• Parking with closed windows: The insect can enter vehicles unnoticed. Be sure to keep the windows closed when parking.
• Remove and destroy pests: Crush nymphs and adult insects. Scrape egg masses into a plastic bag with hand sanitizer or rubbing alcohol to kill them.
• Report sightings: Submit reports with photos to the Eyes in the Field system. Photos are required to verify a report and assist with identification.