It was one of those lazy summer days where I thought my only problem would be the zipper on my shorts — again.
I stepped outside to water the maple tree (because yes, I’ve become that person), and there it was.
A strange, colorful bug clinging to the bark like it owned the place.
At first, I thought it was kind of… pretty. Gray wings with black spots, a delicate posture — almost artistic. Then it flitted away, revealing its secret weapon: bright red underwings and tiny, needle-like mouthparts built for destruction.
I snapped a photo out of curiosity.
Big mistake.
After a quick Google search, I realized I wasn’t looking at an innocent backyard visitor.
I had just made eye contact with one of the most dangerous invasive species in America:
The Spotted Lanternfly .
And suddenly, “nature time” turned into “war mode.”
🐛 What Exactly Is the Spotted Lanternfly?
