We have known in NJ for several years about the spotted lanternfly. The New Jersey State Department of Agriculture put out warning about how this insect invader could have devastating effects on farms and vineyards in the Garden State.
One piece of good news is that a researcher at Rutgers found that the invasive species has an enemy that we didn't know about before – bats. "Most recently, we've discovered that they are eating the spotted lanternfly," said Erin McHale, a PhD candidate. As a part of McHale's research study, she analyzes what bats are eating by studying their guano (bat poop).
Bats are incredibly helpful to humans. Many bats eat insects and some can consume thousands of mosquitoes in a single night, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
Fruit bats pollinate plants. We are not growing bananas, mangoes, and agave in NJ but where it is grown they help maintain ecosystems and agriculture.
Bats spread seeds through their droppings, helping forests regenerate and grow.
New Jersey residents can help by installing a bat house. If it attracts bats, they can consume thousands of insects every night in your neighborhood.
