Second Invasive Spotted Lanternfly Spotted In Rhode Island

PROVIDENCE, RI — Rhode Island saw its second credible report of an invasive spotted lanternfly this week, according to the Department of Environmental Management. The latest sighting was in West Greenwich, while the first was in Warwick last month.

Spotted lanternflys are exotic insects that target plants and trees, including farm crops. They are easily identifiable by their bright red underwings, yellow markings on the abdomen, tan semi-transparent forewings and distinctive spotted patterning. Adults are usually about an inch long, and are active from August through the first hard freeze of the year, usually in late October or early November, the DEM said.

The department urged residents to keep an eye out for these harmful insects, reporting any sightings to the DEM using the online form. If possible, take a photo and collect a specimen.