LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – While you light off fireworks this weekend, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) wants you to look out for a different kind of light.

Officials say the spotted lanternfly is making an appearance this summer. MDARD Director Tim Boring said although the spotted lanternfly does not pose a risk to people or animals, it can be a major nuisance.

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“We’re asking Michiganders to help slow the spread of this unwanted pest by understanding what spotted lanternfly insects and egg masses look like, checking for the pest after you’ve been out on the trails or in your garden, and reporting new populations via the online Eyes in the Field tool.”

As of June 2026, spotted lanternfly populations have been confirmed across southeastern Michigan. Anyone who sees a spotted lanternfly in Jackson, Lenawee, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, or Wayne counties should squish it and focus pest management in the area where the spotted lanternfly is most abundant. Traps or insecticidal soaps and oils work well.

If a spotted lanternfly makes its way to any other Michigan county, take a photo, provide details, and submit a report using the Eyes in the Field tool.

The spotted lanternfly feeds on a wide range of plants, including grapevines and trees such as black walnut, river birch, willow, sumac, and red maple.