It’s hard to keep track of all the invasive insects on Long Island. Long Island is home to ticks, mosquitoes, cockroaches and other pests which threaten human health. Other insects threaten our natural world by infesting our trees and gardens. Here are a few of the latest insects which we’re keeping an eye out for.
Invasive Insects on Long Island
The spotted lanternfly, southern pine beetle, and Asian longhorned beetles are the newest insects which have Long Island officials worried.
The spotted lanternfly eats plant stems and leaves which can possibly kill the plant. The spotted lanternfly can lay its eggs on any smooth surface like cars, trucks, tractors or stone. This insect is especially attracted the Tree of Heaven or Ailanthus tree. Think that you have seen a spotted lanternfly? NY Cornell Cooperative has great photos.
This spring, Suffolk County Parks Department is cutting down trees infested with the southern pine beetle. They are trying to contain this invasive insect’s spread. The southern pine beetle lives mostly in the inner bark of pine trees. They range in color from brown to black. Adults are small – about as long as a grain of rice.
Maple trees are a preferred host for the Asian longhorned beetles. These beetles create perfectly circular dime-size holes in tree trunks and branches. The frass or sawdust-like material will collect on branches and around the tree trunk. Asian longhorned beetles are 1.5 inches long and are black with white spots. They also have long, black and white antennae. Find out more on the NY State Department of Environmental Conservation site. People often spot these beetles in their pool filters.
Please give us a call if you spot any of these insects in your yard. We’ll be happy to help!
