Not all heroes wear capes, some just stick tape on trees.
One Reddit user earned the title, and explained why, in a post on r/Pittsburgh, a city overrun by the invasive yellow butterfly, with a photo showing a trap made from tape, screens, and push pins attached to a tree, with dozens of what are likely yellow butterfly caterpillars stuck to the sticky material.
“This photo was taken 30 minutes after setting the traps on the trees,” the poster captioned the post. “It cost me about $100 to tape 40 trees and I have plenty of tape left over to replace as needed.”
According to the Penn State Public Affairs Office, the insect was first discovered in the US in 2014. The Natural History Museum says the insect is a sap-sucking insect that can have a detrimental effect on the health of the plants it feeds on in areas where it is introduced.
Vineyards seem to be particularly affected: In the author's home state of Pennsylvania, the butterfly's prey could cost the state's economy up to $324 million annually and 2,800 jobs, according to the Natural History Museum.
That's why many residents try to stop the spread of SLF by setting traps. But when setting traps, it's important to use a wildlife barrier, like the window screens OP used. This will prevent other wildlife, including native pollinators, from getting stuck to the sticky material. The larval lanternflies are known to climb tree trunks, which is how they get caught in the traps.
Invasive species are a major concern for biodiversity because they compete with native plants and animals for the resources they need to survive and thrive, and properly trapping SLF is an excellent way to prevent the spread of this particular insect.
In general, there are other simple actions each of us can take to prevent the spread of invasive species, such as cleaning up our equipment after outdoor outings and not releasing pets or houseplants into the wild.
Many Reddit users took to the comments section to praise the poster's efforts and ask clarifying questions about the trap's creation.
🗣️ How often do you plan on gardening this summer?
🔘 Every day 🥗
🔘 At least once a week 🥕
🔘 At least once a month 🌱
🔘 I don't garden 🚫
🗳️ Click on the options to see the results and tell us what you think
“You are the hero we all need in our lives,” one person commented. “Bravo!”
“Nice job,” said another. “Thanks for the idea!”
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