Why Spotted Lanternflies Are Such a Big Problem in New YorkThe spotted lanternfly was first discovered in Pennsylvania in 2014 after arriving in the United States through imported goods from Asia. One of the biggest concerns in New York is the threat they pose to the state's apple orchards and vineyards. After feeding, spotted lanternflies leave behind a sticky substance known as honeydew. Why They're Spreading So QuicklyOne of the biggest reasons the spotted lanternfly continues to spread is...us. What Baby Spotted Lanternflies Look LikeThe young insects, known as instars, look very different from the adults.