Did you know that there are over 1,000 bug species in New Jersey? Some of them are invasive species you may want to look out for.
If you’re a New Jerseyan, you’ve probably heard the news about the Spotted Lanternflies, but they aren’t the only insects that raise red flags. Keep reading for 5 invasive bug species wreaking havoc in New Jersey.
Spotted Laternflies
Of course, we have to start this invasive species list with the insect that has everyone calling pest control services: the Spotted Lanternfly.
The Spotted Lanternfly is a black and red flying bug with white spots. Though these East Asian insects arrived in 2014, Spotted Lanternflies have spread quickly and caused damage to farms and gardens across New Jersey.
If you see a Spotted Lanternfly, the New Jersey Department of Agriculture requests that you kill it on-site. Here are the steps to take if you spot one:
- Squish it with a stomp or swat
- Report to the NJDA via text at 833-4BADBUG (833-422-3284) with a picture attached
- Check your car for more since they’re infamous hitchhikers
- Look for brown egg clusters on trees, fences, or any flat surface and crush them to avoid an infestation
Asian Longhorned Beetles
Asian Longhorned Beetles constitute a significant threat to tree life across America, and New Jersey is one of the states struggling with this invasive species.
Asian Longhorned Beetles are easy to identify since they are so unique. The beetles have a black body with white spots and long black and white striped antennas.
Though these beetles mainly infest Ohio, New York, and Massachusetts, they’ve been spotted in New Jersey and cause severe damage to hardwood trees. They are easy to miss since they hide in lumber and other natural materials.
Gypsy Moths
The European Gypsy Moth snuck across the sea and wreaked havoc since the late 1800s. These bugs look harmless, but they eat at an astonishing rate, endangering native trees and shrubs.
They start as spiky black caterpillars and then become white-winged moths. You can find them across the midwest and the east coast.
These moths are already widespread, so if you move or travel, make sure you don’t have any furry travelers tagging along.
Japanese Beetles
Japanese Beetles are a serious threat to leaves, flowers, and fruit, all victims to their appetite. They even target grassroots, which means they have plenty of convenient food and opportunities to destroy the native environment.
These beetles have a metallic green head with copper wings. Unfortunately, they’re nearly identical to other white grubs before they mature.
Originally from Japan, they were introduced in New Jersey in the early 1900s and have been a pest problem ever since. You can usually find them in summer around your garden, so keep an eye out around June and July.
Emerald Ash Borer
The Emerald ash borer (EAB, Agrilus planipennis) is an insect that is native to Asia. It was introduced into North America during the 1990s. It is believed it came via ash wood pallets or wood packing material.
Since its initial discovery in 2002, this insect has killed millions of ash trees (Fraxinus spp.) throughout the northeastern and central United States. As a result, the emerald ash borer is now considered the most pernicious tree insect pest ever introduced into North America and is making a significant threat to urban forests statewide.
Emerald ash borers start to emerge from beneath the bark of ash trees in late May and April. Their peak activity is between mid-June and early July.
Have You Seen These Invasive Bug Species?
These invasive bug species may look like typical New Jersey residents, but they can be destructive to native wildlife. If you see any invasive species, especially the Spotted Lanternflies, take care of your local community and report your sighting.
Do you struggle with pests or worry they may become a problem?
At NJ Pest Control, we take care of annoying pests so you can live comfortably. Contact us today for expert pest control across the northern New Jersey area!
