Western New York needs to be on alert. Recent sightings across the northeast and in nearby states of the spotted lanternfly brings plenty of worry for Chautauqua County alone.

The invasive creatures have been known to destroy crops that include grapes, apple and hops. It threatens billions in economic impact and hundreds of thousands of jobs in the agricultural industry.

“Adults and nymphs use their sucking mouthparts to feed on the sap of more than 70 plant species. This feeding by sometimes thousands of them stresses plants, making them vulnerable to disease and attacks from other insects,” the state Department of Environmental Conservation said on its web site. “(The species) also excrete large amounts of sticky ‘honeydew,’ which attracts sooty molds that interfere with plant photosynthesis, negatively affecting the growth and fruit yield of plants. New York’s annual yield of apples and grapes, with a combined value of $358.4 million, could be impacted if (the species) enters New York. The full extent of economic damage this insect could cause is unknown at this time.”

A Portland resident last fall sounded the warning on the species when seeking approval for a solar farm on his land. He warned about the potential impact on these crops.

As for appearances, the forewing is gray with black spots and the wings tips are reticulated black blocks outlined in gray. The hind wings have contrasting patches of red and black with a white band. Residents who believe they have seen one are asked to reach out to the DEC at spottedlanternfly@agriculture.ny.gov and note the location or fill out a reporting form.