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Heavy Infestation β€” Confirmed 2017

Spotted Lanternfly inWilmington, DESPOTTED LANTERNFLY GUIDE

Confirmed
2017
Population Served
70,000
Status
Heavy Infestation

Wilmington, Delaware has been dealing with a heavy spotted lanternfly infestation since confirmation in 2017, making it one of the earliest and most heavily affected cities in the mid-Atlantic region. With a population of about 70,000, Delaware's largest city is a major chemical industry hub whose rail yards, industrial waterfront, and dense urban tree canopy have allowed SLF to become thoroughly established. Residents should report sightings to the Delaware Department of Agriculture and take active steps to reduce populations around homes and businesses.

Where it's showing up

Key Neighborhoods

Downtown WilmingtonBrandywine VillageTrolley SquareRiversideElsmere

Highest activity zones

SLF Hotspots

1

Downtown Wilmington

Active zone

2

Brandywine Village

Active zone

3

Trolley Square

Active zone

4

Riverside

Active zone

5

Elsmere

Active zone

Primary SLF food source

Tree of Heaven in Wilmington, DE

Brandywine Creek banks running through Wilmington support extensive Tree of Heaven stands that are central to SLF persistence in the city. The Norfolk Southern Edgemoor rail yard is one of the region's most significant SLF dispersal nodes, and the Port of Wilmington's industrial waterfront provides prime habitat where infested freight and vehicles can introduce or spread populations.

Identify Tree of Heaven β†’

Local action resources

What To Do in Wilmington, DE

Report a Sighting

Every sighting in Wilmington, DE maps the invasion front. Report directly to Delaware Dept of Agriculture.

Report Now β†’

Squish on Sight

See a spotted lanternfly? Kill it immediately β€” it is legal and encouraged in all states. Learn the best kill methods.

Full Fight Guide β†’

Map ToH in Your Block

Tree of Heaven removal cuts off SLF food supply. Add ToH sightings to the community map to guide removal efforts.

View Sighting Map β†’

Statewide resources

Full DE State Guide

County-level data, quarantine zones, treatment guides, and agency resources for the entire state.

See the full DE guide β†’

Community intelligence

Live Sighting Map

See where SLF has been spotted near you in Wilmington, DE. Add your own sighting to help map the front.

Open the Map β†’

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Fight SLF in Wilmington, DE.

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