What Are Lantern Flies Attracted To: A Comprehensive Guide

Lantern flies, also known as spotted lanternflies (SLF), are invasive pests that can cause significant damage to plants and agricultural crops. Understanding what attracts these insects is crucial for effective monitoring, management, and control. At flyermedia.net, we are committed to providing you with the most up-to-date and comprehensive information about these pests and how to mitigate their impact. The guide below will help protect your trees and crops from these pests.

1. What Exactly Attracts Lantern Flies?

Lantern flies are attracted to a variety of factors, including tall vertical objects, specific host plants, and even certain colors. Understanding these attractions can help in developing effective strategies to monitor and control these invasive pests. This knowledge is crucial for safeguarding agricultural crops and maintaining ecological balance.

1.1 Visual Attractions: Tall Vertical Objects

Lantern flies are visually drawn to tall, vertical objects. This attraction influences their behavior and dispersal patterns. Here’s why:

Natural Behavior: Research indicates that lantern flies instinctively fly towards elevated structures. This behavior is possibly linked to their search for host plants or for optimal locations to disperse.
Monitoring and Trapping: This visual attraction can be used to monitor and trap lantern flies. Using tall poles or similar structures as monitoring stations can help track their presence and population size in a given area.
“Attract-and-Kill” Stations: These stations are designed to lure lantern flies to a specific location where they can be eliminated. By using tall poles treated with insecticides, these stations can effectively reduce the local lantern fly population.

1.2 Host Plant Preferences

Lantern flies exhibit preferences for certain host plants, particularly the Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima), which is also an invasive species. This preference affects their distribution and the types of plants most at risk.

Tree of Heaven: The Tree of Heaven is a primary host for lantern flies. This tree provides food and shelter for the insect, contributing to its rapid spread.
Other Host Plants: While the Tree of Heaven is their favorite, lantern flies also feed on a variety of other plants, including fruit trees (apple, plum, cherry), grapevines, and hardwood trees (maple, oak, willow).
Impact on Agriculture: The lantern fly’s broad host range makes it a significant threat to agriculture, as it can infest and damage economically important crops.

1.3 Chemical Signals

Research suggests that lantern flies may be attracted to specific chemical signals emitted by their host plants. These signals guide them to suitable feeding and reproductive sites.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Plants emit VOCs, which are airborne chemical compounds that can attract or repel insects. Identifying the specific VOCs that attract lantern flies could lead to the development of more effective lures.
Host Plant Cues: Lantern flies may use chemical cues to differentiate between host plants. Understanding these cues can help in predicting which plants are most likely to be infested.
Pheromones: While not yet fully understood, pheromones (chemical signals used for communication) could also play a role in lantern fly attraction and mating behaviors.

1.4 Environmental Factors

Environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, and light can also influence lantern fly behavior and attraction to certain areas.

Temperature: Lantern flies are more active in warmer temperatures. This affects their feeding and dispersal patterns.
Humidity: High humidity levels may favor lantern fly survival and reproduction, leading to increased populations in certain areas.
Light: Lantern flies are drawn to light sources, which can be used in trapping strategies. Light traps can attract and capture lantern flies, helping to reduce their numbers.

2. How Does the Tree of Heaven Attract Lantern Flies?

The Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima) is highly attractive to lantern flies due to its abundant sap and chemical signals. This invasive tree provides an ideal food source and habitat for lantern flies, contributing to their widespread distribution. Here’s a more detailed look at why the Tree of Heaven is so appealing:

2.1 Sap Quality

The sap of the Tree of Heaven is rich in nutrients that lantern flies need to survive and reproduce.

Abundant Food Source: Lantern flies feed on plant sap, and the Tree of Heaven offers a plentiful supply. This ensures that lantern flies have enough food to sustain themselves and their offspring.
Nutrient Content: The sap contains essential sugars and amino acids that are vital for lantern fly growth and development. This makes the Tree of Heaven a particularly nutritious host plant.
Ease of Access: The Tree of Heaven has a relatively soft bark, making it easy for lantern flies to pierce and access the sap.

2.2 Chemical Attractants

The Tree of Heaven emits specific chemical compounds that attract lantern flies.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): These compounds act as signals that guide lantern flies to the tree. Identifying and synthesizing these VOCs could be used to create highly effective lures.
Host Recognition: Lantern flies have evolved to recognize the unique chemical signature of the Tree of Heaven. This helps them locate the tree even from a distance.
Oviposition Cues: Female lantern flies may also be attracted to chemical cues that indicate suitable sites for laying eggs on the Tree of Heaven.

2.3 Habitat and Shelter

The Tree of Heaven provides a suitable habitat and shelter for lantern flies at different stages of their life cycle.

Egg-Laying Sites: The bark of the Tree of Heaven offers rough surfaces where female lantern flies can lay their eggs. These eggs are camouflaged and protected from the elements.
Nymphal Development: Young lantern flies (nymphs) feed on the leaves and stems of the Tree of Heaven. The tree provides a safe and accessible food source for these developing insects.
Adult Resting Sites: Adult lantern flies use the Tree of Heaven as a place to rest and mate. The dense foliage offers protection from predators and harsh weather.

2.4 Proximity to Other Plants

The Tree of Heaven often grows near other host plants, increasing the likelihood of lantern flies infesting valuable crops and ornamental plants.

Spread of Infestation: Because Tree of Heaven grows close to vineyards and orchards, the spread of infestation can be fast and devastating for local farms.
Bridge Species: The Tree of Heaven acts as a bridge for lantern flies to move from one host plant to another. Managing Tree of Heaven populations can reduce the overall risk of lantern fly infestations.

3. What Colors Are Lantern Flies Most Attracted To?

The color preferences of lantern flies can influence their behavior and distribution. While research on this specific aspect is ongoing, some observations suggest that certain colors may be more attractive than others.

3.1 Attraction to Dark Colors

Lantern flies appear to be more attracted to dark colors, such as black and dark brown.

Heat Absorption: Dark colors absorb more heat, which may make these surfaces more attractive to lantern flies, especially in cooler weather.
Camouflage: Dark colors may provide better camouflage for lantern flies, making them feel more secure and likely to congregate on these surfaces.
Visual Contrast: Dark colors may stand out more against lighter backgrounds, making them easier for lantern flies to locate.

3.2 Preference for Red Tones

Some evidence suggests that lantern flies may be attracted to red tones, similar to their preference for certain host plants with reddish bark or foliage.

Host Plant Association: The reddish color may mimic the appearance of host plants, attracting lantern flies in search of food.
Visual Cue: Red is a highly visible color that can attract insects from a distance. This may be particularly true for lantern flies, which rely on visual cues to find their hosts.

3.3 Avoidance of Light Colors

Lantern flies may avoid light colors, such as white and light gray, which can reflect sunlight and create a less favorable environment.

Heat Reflection: Light colors reflect heat, making these surfaces cooler and less attractive to lantern flies.
Lack of Camouflage: Light colors may not provide adequate camouflage, making lantern flies more vulnerable to predators.
Visual Disruption: Light colors may disrupt the visual cues that lantern flies use to locate host plants and other resources.

3.4 Using Color in Trapping Strategies

Understanding lantern fly color preferences can be used to develop more effective trapping and monitoring strategies.

Colored Traps: Traps that incorporate attractive colors, such as black or red, may be more effective at capturing lantern flies.
Protective Coatings: Applying light-colored coatings to vulnerable plants may help deter lantern flies and reduce the risk of infestation.
Visual Barriers: Creating visual barriers with light-colored materials may help prevent lantern flies from reaching valuable crops and ornamental plants.

4. What Role Does Light Play in Attracting Lantern Flies?

Light can significantly influence lantern fly behavior, attracting them to specific areas and affecting their activity levels. This knowledge is valuable for developing effective control and monitoring methods.

4.1 Attraction to Artificial Lights

Lantern flies are attracted to artificial lights, particularly at night.

Navigation Disruption: Like many nocturnal insects, lantern flies can become disoriented by artificial lights, leading them to congregate around these sources.
Increased Activity: Artificial lights can stimulate lantern fly activity, causing them to move around and feed more frequently.
Aggregation Sites: Light sources can serve as aggregation sites, where lantern flies gather in large numbers.

4.2 Using Light Traps

Light traps can be an effective tool for capturing lantern flies and reducing their population in a specific area.

Trap Design: Light traps typically consist of a light source that attracts lantern flies, combined with a mechanism to capture or kill the insects.
Placement: Light traps should be placed strategically in areas where lantern flies are known to be active, such as near host plants or along flight paths.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to ensure that light traps remain effective. This includes replacing light bulbs, emptying collection containers, and cleaning the trap.

4.3 Impact of Natural Light

Natural light also plays a role in regulating lantern fly behavior.

Daily Activity Patterns: Lantern flies are most active during the day, when they feed, mate, and lay eggs.
Seasonal Changes: Changes in day length and light intensity can affect lantern fly development and reproduction.
Habitat Selection: Lantern flies may prefer habitats with specific light conditions, such as areas with dappled sunlight or shaded areas near host plants.

4.4 Minimizing Light Attraction

Reducing the amount of artificial light in an area can help deter lantern flies and reduce their impact on vulnerable plants.

Light Shielding: Shielding outdoor lights can help direct light downward, reducing the amount of light that attracts lantern flies.
Light Color: Using yellow or amber-colored lights can be less attractive to insects than white or blue lights.
Motion Sensors: Installing motion sensors on outdoor lights can help reduce the amount of time that lights are on, minimizing their attractiveness to lantern flies.

5. What Smells Attract Lantern Flies?

While visual cues are important, lantern flies also rely on their sense of smell to locate host plants and suitable habitats. Identifying the specific odors that attract these pests can help in developing more effective monitoring and control strategies.

5.1 Host Plant Odors

Lantern flies are attracted to the odors emitted by their host plants, particularly the Tree of Heaven.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Plants emit a variety of VOCs, which can attract or repel insects. Lantern flies are drawn to specific VOCs produced by their preferred host plants.
Host Specificity: The blend of VOCs emitted by a plant can serve as a unique signature that lantern flies use to identify suitable hosts.
Distance Attraction: Lantern flies can detect these odors from a distance, allowing them to locate host plants even when they are not visible.

5.2 Identifying Attractive Compounds

Researchers are working to identify the specific chemical compounds that attract lantern flies.

Field Studies: Field studies involve collecting and analyzing the VOCs emitted by different host plants and observing how lantern flies respond to these odors.
Laboratory Experiments: Laboratory experiments allow researchers to test the attractiveness of individual VOCs in a controlled environment.
Chemical Analysis: Chemical analysis techniques, such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), can be used to identify the specific compounds present in plant odors.

5.3 Using Odors in Trapping Strategies

Once the attractive compounds are identified, they can be used in trapping strategies to lure lantern flies to specific locations.

Scented Traps: Traps can be baited with synthetic versions of the attractive compounds, drawing lantern flies into the trap.
Lure Placement: The placement of scented traps is critical. Traps should be placed in areas where lantern flies are known to be active, such as near host plants or along flight paths.
Trap Design: The design of the trap should also be considered. Traps that mimic the shape and color of host plants may be more effective at attracting lantern flies.

5.4 Other Potential Attractants

In addition to host plant odors, lantern flies may be attracted to other smells, such as pheromones or the odors of decaying plant matter.

Pheromones: Pheromones are chemical signals used by insects for communication. Identifying lantern fly pheromones could lead to the development of highly specific lures.
Decaying Matter: Lantern flies may be attracted to the odors of decaying plant matter, which can indicate the presence of suitable egg-laying sites.
General Plant Odors: Lantern flies may also be attracted to general plant odors, which can indicate the presence of potential food sources.

6. How Do I Know If I Have A Lantern Fly Infestation?

Identifying a lantern fly infestation early is essential for implementing effective control measures. Knowing the signs of infestation can help you take action before the pests cause significant damage.

6.1 Visual Inspection

Regular visual inspections of your property can help you detect lantern fly infestations early.

Check Host Plants: Focus your inspections on known host plants, such as the Tree of Heaven, fruit trees, grapevines, and hardwood trees.
Look for Adults and Nymphs: Look for both adult lantern flies and nymphs (young lantern flies) on the plants.
Examine Trunks and Branches: Examine the trunks and branches of trees for signs of lantern fly activity, such as sap oozing from wounds.

6.2 Identifying Egg Masses

Lantern fly egg masses are a key indicator of infestation.

Appearance: Egg masses are typically gray or brown in color and covered with a mud-like substance.
Location: Egg masses can be found on a variety of surfaces, including tree trunks, branches, rocks, and even vehicles.
Timing: Egg masses are typically laid in the fall and winter and hatch in the spring.

6.3 Recognizing Feeding Damage

Lantern fly feeding can cause noticeable damage to plants.

Sap Oozing: Lantern flies feed on plant sap, which can cause sap to ooze from wounds on the plant.
Wilting Leaves: Heavy infestations can cause leaves to wilt and turn yellow or brown.
Reduced Growth: Lantern fly feeding can reduce plant growth and overall health.

6.4 Honeydew and Sooty Mold

Lantern flies excrete a sugary substance called honeydew, which can attract other insects and promote the growth of sooty mold.

Honeydew: Look for sticky, shiny patches on the leaves and stems of plants.
Sooty Mold: Sooty mold is a black, powdery fungus that grows on honeydew.
Attraction of Other Insects: Honeydew can attract other insects, such as ants and wasps.

6.5 Monitoring Sticky Bands

Sticky bands can be used to monitor lantern fly activity on trees.

Application: Wrap sticky bands around the trunks of trees to capture nymphs as they climb.
Inspection: Regularly inspect the sticky bands for trapped lantern flies.
Data Collection: Record the number of lantern flies captured to track population trends.

7. What Damage Can Lantern Flies Cause?

Lantern flies can cause significant damage to plants and agricultural crops. Understanding the types of damage they inflict is crucial for implementing effective control measures.

7.1 Direct Feeding Damage

Lantern flies feed on plant sap, which can weaken plants and reduce their growth.

Sap Loss: The extraction of sap deprives plants of essential nutrients and water.
Weakened Plants: Repeated feeding can weaken plants, making them more susceptible to diseases and other pests.
Reduced Growth: Feeding damage can reduce plant growth and overall productivity.

7.2 Honeydew and Sooty Mold

The honeydew excreted by lantern flies can create additional problems for plants.

Sooty Mold Growth: Honeydew provides a substrate for sooty mold, which can block sunlight and reduce photosynthesis.
Attraction of Other Insects: Honeydew attracts other insects, such as ants and wasps, which can further damage plants.
Aesthetic Damage: Sooty mold can make plants look unsightly, reducing their aesthetic value.

7.3 Impact on Fruit Trees and Grapevines

Lantern flies can be particularly damaging to fruit trees and grapevines.

Reduced Fruit Production: Feeding damage can reduce fruit production and quality.
Vine Damage: Lantern flies can damage grapevines, reducing their vigor and productivity.
Economic Losses: Infestations can result in significant economic losses for fruit growers and vineyard owners.

7.4 Impact on Hardwood Trees

Hardwood trees, such as maple, oak, and willow, can also be affected by lantern fly feeding.

Weakened Trees: Repeated feeding can weaken trees, making them more susceptible to diseases and other pests.
Dieback: Heavy infestations can cause branches to die back.
Tree Mortality: In severe cases, lantern fly feeding can lead to tree mortality.

7.5 Indirect Damage

In addition to direct feeding damage, lantern flies can cause indirect damage by disrupting plant ecosystems.

Disruption of Pollination: Lantern flies can disrupt pollination by interfering with the activity of pollinators.
Alteration of Soil Chemistry: The honeydew excreted by lantern flies can alter soil chemistry, affecting plant growth.
Spread of Diseases: Lantern flies can potentially spread plant diseases as they feed on different plants.

8. What Are Some Effective Lantern Fly Control Methods?

Controlling lantern fly populations requires a multi-faceted approach that combines different methods. Here are some effective strategies for managing lantern fly infestations.

8.1 Tree of Heaven Removal

Removing the Tree of Heaven is a crucial step in controlling lantern fly populations.

Herbicide Application: Apply herbicides to kill the Tree of Heaven. Follow label instructions carefully and use appropriate personal protective equipment.
Cutting and Treating Stumps: Cut down the Tree of Heaven and treat the stumps with herbicide to prevent regrowth.
Systematic Removal: Remove all Tree of Heaven trees in the area to eliminate the primary host plant for lantern flies.

8.2 Trapping

Trapping can be an effective way to reduce lantern fly populations.

Sticky Bands: Wrap sticky bands around the trunks of trees to capture nymphs as they climb.
Circle Traps: Construct circle traps around trees to capture nymphs as they move up and down the trunk.
Light Traps: Use light traps to attract and capture adult lantern flies.

8.3 Insecticide Application

Insecticides can be used to control lantern fly populations, but they should be used judiciously to minimize impacts on non-target organisms.

Contact Insecticides: Apply contact insecticides to kill lantern flies on contact.
Systemic Insecticides: Use systemic insecticides to kill lantern flies that feed on treated plants.
Professional Application: Consider hiring a professional pest control service to apply insecticides safely and effectively.

8.4 Egg Mass Scraping

Scraping and destroying lantern fly egg masses can help reduce the number of nymphs that hatch in the spring.

Inspection: Inspect trees, rocks, and other surfaces for egg masses.
Scraping: Use a scraper or putty knife to remove egg masses from surfaces.
Disposal: Dispose of egg masses by placing them in a bag and crushing them or submerging them in soapy water.

8.5 Biological Control

Researchers are exploring the potential of biological control agents to manage lantern fly populations.

Natural Enemies: Identify and promote the natural enemies of lantern flies, such as predators and parasites.
Fungal Pathogens: Investigate the use of fungal pathogens to control lantern fly populations.
Biopesticides: Consider using biopesticides derived from natural sources to control lantern flies.

9. Where Are Lantern Flies Most Commonly Found in the USA?

Lantern flies have spread to several states in the USA, with the highest concentrations in the northeastern region. Understanding their distribution can help you assess the risk of infestation in your area.

9.1 Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania was the first state to report a lantern fly infestation, and it remains one of the most heavily infested states.

Initial Detection: Lantern flies were first detected in Berks County, Pennsylvania, in 2014.
Widespread Infestation: The infestation has since spread to many other counties in Pennsylvania.
Control Efforts: Pennsylvania has implemented extensive control efforts to manage lantern fly populations.

9.2 New Jersey

New Jersey has also experienced significant lantern fly infestations.

Early Detection: Lantern flies were first detected in New Jersey in 2018.
Spread to Multiple Counties: The infestation has since spread to multiple counties in New Jersey.
Statewide Efforts: New Jersey has launched statewide efforts to control lantern fly populations and prevent further spread.

9.3 Delaware

Delaware is another state with established lantern fly populations.

Initial Detection: Lantern flies were first detected in Delaware in 2017.
Localized Infestations: The infestation has been localized to certain areas of Delaware.
Control Measures: Delaware has implemented control measures to manage lantern fly populations and protect valuable crops.

9.4 Other Affected States

Lantern flies have also been detected in other states, including:

New York
Maryland
Virginia
Connecticut
Ohio
West Virginia
Indiana

9.5 Reporting New Sightings

If you suspect you have found lantern flies in an area where they have not been previously reported, it is important to report your sighting to your local Department of Agriculture or Extension office.

Accurate Identification: Ensure that you have accurately identified the insect as a lantern fly.
Documentation: Take photos of the insect and the surrounding area.
Contact Authorities: Contact your local Department of Agriculture or Extension office to report your sighting.

10. What Should I Do If I Find Lantern Flies?

If you find lantern flies on your property or in your area, it is important to take action to control their spread and minimize their impact. Here are some steps you can take.

10.1 Identification Confirmation

Confirm that you have correctly identified the insect as a lantern fly.

Visual Comparison: Compare the insect to images and descriptions of lantern flies.
Expert Consultation: If you are unsure, consult with your local Extension office or Department of Agriculture for confirmation.

10.2 Reporting

Report your sighting to your local Department of Agriculture or Extension office.

Provide Details: Provide as much detail as possible about the location, number of insects, and host plants.
Follow Instructions: Follow any instructions provided by the authorities for reporting and control.

10.3 Control Measures

Implement control measures to reduce lantern fly populations on your property.

Tree of Heaven Removal: Remove the Tree of Heaven to eliminate the primary host plant.
Trapping: Use sticky bands, circle traps, or light traps to capture lantern flies.
Egg Mass Scraping: Scrape and destroy egg masses to reduce the number of nymphs that hatch in the spring.
Insecticide Application: Apply insecticides to kill lantern flies, following label instructions carefully.

10.4 Preventative Measures

Take preventative measures to reduce the risk of future infestations.

Monitor Host Plants: Regularly monitor host plants for signs of lantern fly activity.
Remove Egg Masses: Remove egg masses from trees, rocks, and other surfaces.
Avoid Transporting Infested Materials: Avoid transporting plants, firewood, or other materials that may be infested with lantern flies.

10.5 Community Involvement

Encourage your neighbors and community to participate in lantern fly control efforts.

Education: Educate others about lantern flies and how to identify and control them.
Coordination: Coordinate control efforts with neighbors to maximize effectiveness.
Community Events: Organize community events to remove Tree of Heaven trees and scrape egg masses.

At flyermedia.net, we understand the importance of staying informed and taking proactive steps to protect your property from lantern fly infestations. By understanding what attracts these pests and implementing effective control measures, you can help minimize their impact and protect your plants and crops.

For more information on lantern fly control and management, visit flyermedia.net. Contact us at Address: 600 S Clyde Morris Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, United States. Phone: +1 (386) 226-6000 or visit our website at flyermedia.net to explore our resources and connect with experts in the field. We are here to help you navigate the challenges of lantern fly infestations and keep your property healthy and thriving.

FAQ Section

1. What Makes Lantern Flies Attracted to Specific Locations?

Lantern flies are attracted to specific locations due to a combination of factors, including the presence of host plants like the Tree of Heaven, tall vertical objects that serve as visual cues, and favorable environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity.

2. Why Do Lantern Flies Seem to Prefer Certain Trees Over Others?

Lantern flies prefer certain trees, especially the Tree of Heaven, because these trees provide a plentiful supply of sap that is rich in nutrients. The Tree of Heaven also emits specific chemical compounds that attract lantern flies.

3. Are Lantern Flies Attracted to All Types of Light?

Lantern flies are generally attracted to artificial lights, particularly at night, which can disrupt their navigation and increase their activity levels. However, they may be less attracted to yellow or amber-colored lights compared to white or blue lights.

4. Can the Smell of My Garden Attract Lantern Flies?

Yes, the smell of your garden can attract lantern flies, especially if you have host plants like fruit trees or grapevines. Lantern flies are drawn to the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by these plants.

5. How Can I Use Traps to Attract and Capture Lantern Flies?

You can use traps to attract and capture lantern flies by incorporating elements that appeal to their preferences, such as dark colors, host plant scents, and light sources. Sticky bands, circle traps, and light traps can be effective tools for managing lantern fly populations.

6. What Role Does Temperature Play in Attracting Lantern Flies?

Temperature plays a significant role in attracting lantern flies, as they are more active in warmer conditions. Higher temperatures can stimulate their feeding, mating, and dispersal patterns.

7. Are There Certain Times of Day When Lantern Flies Are More Attracted to Areas?

Lantern flies are most active during the day, so they are more likely to be attracted to areas with host plants, light sources, and favorable conditions during daylight hours.

8. How Can I Prevent Lantern Flies From Being Attracted to My Property?

You can prevent lantern flies from being attracted to your property by removing the Tree of Heaven, reducing artificial light, monitoring host plants, and implementing preventative measures such as egg mass scraping.

9. What Should I Do If I Find a Large Group of Lantern Flies on My Property?

If you find a large group of lantern flies on your property, take immediate action to control their spread. Report the sighting to your local Department of Agriculture or Extension office, implement control measures such as trapping and insecticide application, and encourage your neighbors to participate in control efforts.

10. Where Can I Get More Information on What Attracts Lantern Flies?

You can get more information on what attracts lantern flies by visiting flyermedia.net, contacting your local Extension office, and consulting with experts in the field.