Invasive Spotted Lantern Fly detected in Fulton County for the first time

According to the Georgia Department of Agriculture, an invasive insect known as the Spotted Lantern Fly has been detected in Fulton County, Georgia for the first time on October 22, 2024.

Invasive spotted lanternflies.  Photo by Ansel Oommen, Bugwood.org

This pest is a serious threat to Georgia’s agriculture industry as it is a sap feeder on stone fruit trees. Homeowners should also be vigilant because a number of native hardwood tree species including beech, birch, black gum, maples, oaks, and sycamores are also susceptible to damage from this invasive insect.

The University of Georgia, Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources has a fact sheet that provides detailed information on this pest.

The Georgia Invasive Species Task Force encourages Georgians to take immediate action if Spotted Lantern Fly is detected. Sightings can be reported via their website.