The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (NCDA&CS) has confirmed the presence of the invasive spotted lanternfly in Caldwell County. The initial surveys show that the pest is concentrated in Lenoir within a 1-mile radius, with ongoing efforts to assess its spread.
“NCDA&CS has surveyed for spotted lanternfly throughout North Carolina since 2015, and this is the first time a breeding population has been found in the mountains,” stated Dr. Bill Foote, director of the Plant Industry Division. He emphasized that their team is acting swiftly to control the pest’s spread and encouraged public vigilance.
Caldwell County becomes the fourth county in North Carolina with an established spotted lanternfly population, marking its first occurrence outside the Triad area. Earlier this year, Rockingham County joined Forsyth and Guilford counties on the list where these pests were identified since 2022.
Dr. Foote warned about the potential impact on local agriculture: “Spotted lanternfly poses a serious threat to the state’s wine and grape industries and can feed and cause damage on over 100 species of plants including fruit trees, maples, and other common plants.” He noted their rapid population growth due to a lack of natural predators in the U.S.
Amy Michael, Entomological Programs manager, added that unchecked populations could form swarms during mating season in September, coinciding with peak fall foliage viewing times in mountain areas.
These insects excrete honeydew after feeding on plant sap, which can attract ants and mold. Their ability to hitchhike on vehicles has facilitated their spread across 17 states so far. “Spotted lanternflies like to feed high in the treetops, but they are not good at telling the difference between a truck tire and a tree trunk,” Michael explained.
The NCDA&CS continues year-round surveys in Caldwell County to locate additional infestations while prioritizing treatment at sites likely to spread pests further. Treatments occur from April through October each year by licensed operators.
“Early detection and rapid response are critical in the control of spotted lanternfly,” said Foote. Residents who suspect they have seen a spotted lanternfly are urged to report sightings via an online tool provided by NCDA&CS.
