US Open Faces Swarm of Noisy Insects: Fans Urged to Notify Authorities
The US Open is preparing for an unexpected surge of lively, crop-devastating pests.
British athletes Emma Raducanu and Jack Draper may need to implement protective measures when they take to the court for their singles matches next week, vying for the impressive $5 million champion’s prize.
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Credit: Volkan Furuncu/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images
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Credit: Gary Hershorn/Getty Images
The upcoming three-week tennis tournament may be overshadowed by a rise in spotted lanternflies, which are currently undergoing an exceptional population boom.
These pesky creatures have been noted in 29 of New York State’s 62 counties during this sweltering summer.
Flushing Meadows, the event site, covers 897 acres, making it the fourth-largest public park in the state.
If any of these pests are identified at the venue, fans and players are encouraged to report them to local authorities — and then STOMP on them to mitigate further problems.
Lanternflies indiscriminately consume everything from vegetable gardens to fruit trees, typically hatching in late May.
They become especially visible during their frenzied mating rituals throughout August.
Kelli Hoover, an entomology professor at Pennsylvania State University, has expressed concerns about their rapid proliferation across the nation.
She stated: “They’re hitching rides on trains, planes, and ships.”
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“These little guys are brave hitchhikers.”
Additionally, Brian Eshenaur, an expert on invasive species at Cornell University, advised: “When someone spots an insect, we recommend they take a picture first.
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“And then stomp on it.”