17 September 2023
The onslaught of invasive noticed lanternflies (Lycorma delicatula) continues in Pittsburgh till the primary actually chilly climate provides us a few frosts. This month the insects are congregating on vertical items, feeding on Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima), and laying eggs.
On Friday in Schenley Park the solar broke sideways during the bushes to a big Ailanthus alongside the Decrease Path covered in lanternflies, sooty mould, and white mould (highlighted in yellow). The lanternflies have been actively sucking at the tree’s sap.
Daylight illuminated small insects flying horizontally close to the tree and one thing falling that gave the impression of rain.
Uh oh! That rain is watery noticed lanternfly poop known as “honeydew.” The honeydew is sugary and the air in reality smelled candy.
So stand again whilst you see a tree covered in sooty mould and noticed lanternflies. You received’t wish to get rained on.
Right here’s extra about sooty mould.
p.s. Don’t fear about honeydew losing from constructions and application poles. The lanternflies aren’t consuming there so that they aren’t pooping both.
(footage and video through Kate St. John)