The Spotted Lantern Fly has been confirmed in multiple northern Indiana counties including St. Joseph, Elkhart, and Porter.

The invasive species was found next to railroad lines in through Mishawaka, Elkhart and Chesterton.

The plant hopper is often harmful to local fruit orchards, nurseries, logging, and wine industries.

Adult forms of the species use their mouths to feed off plants, weakening them and making it harder for the plant to survive through the winter.

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources are continuing to monitor infested areas.

Anybody who spots the insect should contact the DNR Division of Entomology & Plant Pathology at 866-NO-EXOTIC (866-663-9684).