NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. — Bats are now being recognized as unexpected allies in the fight against spotted lanternflies, a major threat to New Jersey’s agriculture, according to new research from Rutgers University.
The study, led by Ph.D. candidate Aaron McCale, reveals that bats have been preying on spotted lanternflies, an invasive species known for damaging crops and trees across the Garden State. McCale and her team made the discovery while analyzing bat guano—commonly referred to as bat droppings.
“Most recently what we’ve discovered is that they are in fact eating the spotted lantern fly,” McCale said in a recent interview. “No one has seen that before.”
The spotted lanternfly, originally from Asia, has rapidly spread throughout New Jersey in recent years, raising concerns for vineyards, fruit orchards, and hardwood trees. Until now, few natural predators in the region were believed to consume the insect.
The research team used DNA analysis of guano samples collected around New Brunswick to confirm the presence of lanternfly remains. The finding suggests that bats may help limit the pest population through natural feeding behavior.
McCale noted that encouraging bat populations by installing bat houses on properties could aid in controlling insect populations. “They feed on thousands and thousands of insects each and every night,” she said.
The study was conducted on Rutgers University’s New Brunswick campus and highlights the broader role of native wildlife in managing invasive species.