(WBBM NEWSRADIO) – An invasive species has been spotted here in Illinois for the first time.
The spotted lanternfly is not a threat to people or their pets, but it could be another matter for some trees.
“We know that the spotted lanternfly is on the move from the East Coast over the last eight years,” says Trisha Bethke, the forest pest outreach coordinator for the state of Illinois. “We did get a positive confirmation from the USDA.”
The spotted lanternfly feeds on a wide variety of plants, including grapes and maple trees.
Bethke’s advice? “Take a deep breath. Don’t panic. This pest is here. We know this pest, and we’re seeing it in very low numbers in certain locations in and around Cook County.”
Illinoisans who see the insect are asked to document it and report it to state officials. Residents can also help be destroying “egg masses” of the insect.
“That will really suppress the population,” she said.
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