emporia news – As June approaches, the New York metro area is experiencing longer days and higher temperatures, but along with that comes an increase in the presence of bugs. In the East Village, Manhattan, residents are noticing a rise in the number of bugs in the area.
The spotted lanternfly has been wreaking havoc on plants in the tri-state area ever since it made its appearance a few years ago. This pest is just days or weeks away from reaching adulthood, the stage where it can cause the most harm and reproduce. As a result, gardeners, horticulturists, and entomologists are advising people to get rid of as many of these insects as possible while they are still in their juvenile stages.
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On a bright and warm Tuesday, individuals such as Darien Footé were relishing the pleasant weather at the Creative Little Garden, a small park located on East 6th Street between Avenues B and C.
“The swing is here, table is here,” Footé said, “so I like to eat here sometimes. Definitely a good space.”
However, he added, there’s one other aspect about the little park that’s disturbing.
“If they’re on me,” he said with a chuckle, “I got ’em.”
As we wandered through the lush surroundings, he pointed out the spotted lanternfly nymphs. These bugs, which are about the size of a pencil eraser, were visible on several plants. Their distinctive black bodies and striking white spots make them easy to identify.
According to hobbyist entomologist Mac Brandt, even though they have unique features, people may still not be familiar with them. People are more accustomed to seeing the adult version of these creatures, which have black-spotted grey wings and display a distinct red coloration under each wing when they take flight.
