17 September 2023
The onslaught of invasive noticed lanternflies (Lycorma delicatula) continues in Pittsburgh till the primary really chilly climate provides us a few frosts. This month the bugs are congregating on vertical objects, feeding on Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima), and laying eggs.
On Friday in Schenley Park the solar broke sideways via the bushes to a big Ailanthus alongside the Decrease Path coated in lanternflies, sooty mould, and white mould (highlighted in yellow). The lanternflies have been actively sucking on the tree’s sap.
Daylight illuminated small bugs flying horizontally close to the tree and one thing falling that seemed like rain.
Uh oh! That rain is watery noticed lanternfly poop known as “honeydew.” The honeydew is sugary and the air really smelled candy.
So stand again if you see a tree coated in sooty mould and noticed lanternflies. You gained’t wish to get rained on.
Right here’s extra about sooty mould.
p.s. Don’t fear about honeydew dropping from buildings and utility poles. The lanternflies aren’t consuming there in order that they aren’t pooping both.
(photographs and video by Kate St. John)
