Experts have been warning us and this time they were right. The Spotted Lanternfly - an invasive creature native to eastern Asia - has been detected in Oakland County.

The Spotted Lanternfly has been on our radar since April of 2019 when we first shared experts' warnings that the bug was expected to invade Michigan. Residents of eastern Pennsylvania have been battling with the bugs for several years now, with some even reporting that they feel like they've been held as prisoners in their homes.

It has since migrated to New Jersey, Delaware, Virginia, New York, and Maryland.

Where Was the Species Detected?

A small population of the Spotted Lanternfly was seen in Pontiac last week, and the finding was confirmed by the US Department of Agriculture on Wednesday (8/10).

What Can We Expect From the Spotted Lanternfly?

The species is known to dine on vegetation and fruit trees and poses a threat to black walnut, river birch, willow, sumac, and red maple trees.

SLF wings: Adult spotted lanterfly's bright wing coloration is hidden when wings are closed.
Robert Gardner, Bugwood.org
loading...

Joanne Foreman is the invasive species communications coordinator for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. She says there is still a lot to learn about the species.

“The research community is still learning about the spotted lanternfly and its potential for impacting our natural resources as well as treatments to eliminate this pest,” Foreman said in a press release. “It also could have an effect on important timber species statewide. What the long-term impact might be is unknown.”

What Can You Do?

Experts say that the creature likes to 'hitchhike' to new areas by catching rides on vehicles, firewood, tires, and campers.

SLF egg mass: Spotted lanternflies may lay egg masses on vehicles, outdoor furniture or other items that can be transported to new areas, leading to new infestations.
Emilie Swackhammer, Penn State University, Bugwood.org.
loading...

They recommend parking vehicles with the windows closed and checking vehicles carefully for Spotted Lanternfly eggs and insects before moving. Check vehicle doors, sides, bumpers, wheel wells, and grills. Moving firewood or any vegetation from region to region is strongly discouraged.

Since the species prefers the ailanthus tree, also known as the 'tree of heaven,' try to remove those trees from personal property in order to avoid attracting the creature.

Spotted lanternfly
Earlier spotted lanternfly life stages include a black, spotted beetle which later morphs to red, as indicated in the top right and left corners of the collage
loading...

Here Are the Most Dangerous Cities in Michigan

Unfortunately, the Motor City isn't the only dangerous place in Michigan. Of course, Detroit makes the list, compiled by Road Snacks, but there are nine other cities and townships throughout our state which have exceptionally high crime rates.

For Sale: Historic Alpena Post Office Transformed Into Elegant $3M Residence

Potential and location, what more do you need? Someone saw a bit of both when they purchased this historic Alpena Federal Building that was once a Post Office. The inside comes as a surprise as you walk through the doors of the building constructed in 1910 with an entire elegant residence. Although there are 15,000 square feet of space, there is only 1 bedroom and 1 bathroom for accommodations. The building has an added plus with 165' of frontage on the south bank of the Thunder Bay River.
When it comes to potential the possibilities are endless. The property is zoned for commercial use and the new owner could create a venue for weddings and parties, bed & breakfast, or additional lofts for living. It is currently listed for $3M, and the building is offered below appraisal and options for thousands of dollars in restoration grants. Take a look inside!

Check Out 27 TV Shows That Were All Set in Michigan

Michigan is a great state surrounded by the Great Lakes - and it also makes a great setting for a TV show.

We all know that 'Home Improvement' starring Michigan's own Tim Allen is set here in Michigan, but that's just the tip of the iceberg. Or in this case, the tip of the Mitten.

Check out these 27 TV shows that have been based right here in good ol' Michigan.

More From Club 93.7