Photo of the Day

Magnolia Leaf-footed Bug
At first glance, this insect might be mistaken for a Brown Marmorated Stink Bug.  It is, however, a native species, a Magnolia Leaf-footed Bug (Leptoglossus fulvicornis).  Because it feeds almost exclusively on trees in the genus Magnolia, and because the three members of the genus native to the lower Susquehanna valley, Umbrella Magnolia (M. tripetala), Cucumber Tree (M. acuminata), and Sweetbay (M. virginiana), each have a very limited distribution here, this insect’s presence in the watershed is largely dependent on widespread introductions of ornamental magnolias and native transplants including Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora).  Adult Magnolia Leaf-footed Bugs overwinter in leaf litter beneath the host trees.  In spring, females lay their eggs in rows along the midrib of the leaves where they are often victims of parasitoid wasps including Gyron pennsylvanicum.  The surviving nymphs and the adults feed on the tree’s leaves and fruits, causing little harm to its overall health.

Happy Halloween

Here’s wishing you and yours a Happy Halloween.  It’s a much-anticipated day of excitement capped by surprise visits from strange-looking hideous creatures you’ve never seen before.  They don’t stop by for a chat.  Nope, not a word.  Just a little bit of nearly imperceptible buzzing when the move around.  You see, the little sneaks have hatched a plan.  They want to eat your stuff and maybe trash the place before they go.  And when you finally get rid of them, more start showing up—dozens and dozens, then hundreds.  The more you have, the more you attract.  You’ll be shocked that there are that many living in your neighborhood.  It’s like a scene from “Nightmare on Maple Street”.  The invasion drives some people mad, but you’re just going to love it.  So, get ready, because here they come.  Trick or Treat!

Brown Marmorated Stink Bug
Q:  What’s scariest thing about having Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs over for Halloween?
Brown Marmorated Stink Bug and Spotted Lanternfly
A:  They bring along their friends.