The Spotted Lanternfly

My husband noticed, near my bench,
A spotted lanternfly.
I didn’t have to kill it;
Something else caused it to die.

I’m looking at it, upside down
And really, it’s a pity
That something so destructive
Can look cool and downright pretty.

This species, most invasive,
Has the city on alert.
We’ve been told, on sight, to stomp them,
Though the thought might disconcert.

Like roaches and mosquitoes,
I will add this newfound pest
To the list of critters I might send
To their eternal rest.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2022

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Krutsinger Avatar
September 28, 2022 at 10:01 AM
Now I really want to find a lanternfly, as I have no idea - are they lightning bugs?
Watt Avatar
September 23, 2022 at 12:08 PM
ilene, thank you for the public service announcement, and for the educational and entertaining way you shared it!
Leffanta Avatar
September 21, 2022 at 10:56 AM
Another gift from China to be re-directed to Putin, but do not send by Trump's USPS as it could end up in Georgia! Aloha!
Kyser Avatar
September 20, 2022 at 1:19 PM
Interesting! I have heard about these, but have not seen any. The images are kind of pretty, but obviously they are a real problem. Enjoyed the poem!
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace