Bug Hunt and Curious Finds

 Regina sent in this report on the recent Chapter Hunt for Spotted Lanternfly egg casings:

SWP Master Naturalists went on a bug hunt in Fisher Farm Park for the Spotted Lanternfly eggs and nymphs. Attendees reviewed preserved specimens and ailanthus tree handouts prior to inspecting the picnic shelters, ball park structures, fences and ailanthus trees. We also discussed the infestation map and types of preferred habitat and structures for eggs.

Although we didn’t spot any of the invasive bugs of focus , we did have several curious finds including a Tulip-tree Beauty moth, a spongy moth cocoon, and a cranefly. Nine naturalists volunteered a total 13.5 hours and were also joined by two friends for the bug hunt. Another CE webinar about the Spotted Lanternfly is available for registration and will be followed by a future adult trap training and fieldtrip. 

Photo by Regina Flora: Bug Hunt Attendees

Photo by Regina Flora: Cranefly

Photo by Regina Flora: Spongy Moth cocoon

Photo by Regina Flora: Tulip-tree Beauty moth

Photo by Regina Flora: on the hunt for egg casings

Photo by Regina Flora: more hunting.... 

Photo by Regina Flora: No SLF egg casings were found!