Spotted Lanternfly Nymphs Emerge in the Finger Lakes

Spotted lanternfly (Lycoma delicatula, SLF) nymphs have officially emerged in the Finger Lakes region! As these young insects become more active, early detection and reporting are critical to tracking their spread and protecting our region’s natural resources and agricultural industries. An updated SLF distribution map is created and maintained by Cornell Integrated Pest Management and be viewed using the following link: Spotted Lanternfly Reported Distribution Map.  

The Finger Lakes supports valuable agricultural crops, including grapes, which can be impacted by spotted lanternfly infestations. Managing this invasive pest is a landscape-scale challenge that requires an integrated pest management approach. Success will depend on collaboration among landowners, municipalities, organizations, businesses, and community members working together to slow the spread of SLF throughout the region. 

2026 Monitoring and Control Efforts So Far

The Finger Lakes PRISM Terrestrial Invasive Species Team and partners continue to monitor and manage known infestations.

• SLF nymphs captured in monitoring traps: 185 

• SLF nymphs controlled using vacuum removal: 281 

• 20 monitoring traps installed by FL-PRISM and partners 

• To date, SLF nymphs have only been detected in traps located within known infestation areas 

How You Can Help 

If you suspect you have found a spotted lanternfly, please report it using the Spotted Lanternfly Public Reporting Form, which is managed by the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets. When submitting a report, include clear, high-quality photographs whenever possible to help with identification. Community observations play an important role in tracking the spread of this invasive species and informing management efforts. 

Interested in Hosting Monitoring Traps? 

FL-PRISM is seeking landowners and partners interested in supporting spotted lanternfly monitoring efforts. If you would like to host monitoring traps or have tree-of-heaven mapped on your property, please complete the FL-PRISM Spotted Lanternfly Program Interest Form.

Written by Lydia Martin – Terrestrial Invasive Species Program Manager