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No, the spotted lanternfly does not sting, bite, or otherwise do anything painful or damaging to humans or animals. Do not hesitate to approach and kill the insects and any eggs you find on sight—you’ll be playing an important role in slowing the spread of these invasive and destructive pests. If you’re not sure if the insect is a spotted lanternfly, snap a picture and contact your local extension office for help identifying it.

Naturally occurring EPA-registered Bti products are an effective way to kill off mosquitoes at the larval stage. And, although they won’t wipe them out, there are lots of natural repellents that make your yard less attractive to mosquitoes. Try planting some marigolds, lemon thyme, or other plants they’ll steer clear of, light a citronella candle or two, or lay some bug-offensive cedar mulch.

Squash bugs technically aren’t invasive, as they are native to North America. However, this doesn’t mean that they aren’t incredibly destructive. These pests can cause significant damage to squash, pumpkins, and other cucurbit crops by feeding on plant sap and injecting toxins that cause leaves to wilt, dry out, and die. In large numbers, squash bugs can decimate entire plants (especially younger ones), making them a major nuisance for home gardeners and commercial growers alike.

No, phorid flies do not bite humans or animals. However, they can still be harmful to humans. Since phorid flies feed on decaying organic matter and are found in unsanitary conditions, they can transmit disease organisms onto foods and food preparation surfaces. If you suspect that your home has a phorid fly infestation, protect your health by taking immediate action to eliminate it.