Tennessee’s Department of Agriculture has warned residents to be careful after the spotted lanternfly has been spotted across the state. Officials say to kill the insect.

The spotted lanternfly is a destructive and invasive species in the area, though it is a unique and eye-catching creature. Known for its polka dot pattern, the species has been found to produce a sticky substance called honeydew. This honeydew encourages mold growth, which in turn causes stress to the plants the spotted lanternfly infests.

To make matters worse, the insect is known for clustering among its own kind and laying masses of eggs on any smooth surface they find. This further stresses the plants, of which they feed on over 70 different species.

Plants aren’t the only surface the spotted lanternflies like, though. They have been found to land and lay eggs on vehicles, outdoor furniture and play equipment, too.

So far, the spotted lanternflies have been spotted as far east as Knox County and as far west as the closer counties of Sumner and Davidson. They are not yet widespread in Tennessee.

If you spot the insects, officials urge you to stomp them, douse their eggs with rubbing alcohol and report the sightings to the state. Citizen action is crucial to preventing their spread.

The state has also begun training dogs to detect the insects.

Though they are not widespread, their presence could pose a real risk to both natural areas and agricultural businesses, including Austin Peay State University’s Native Research Garden, the Austin Peay Arboretum, the Victory Gardens and the APSU Farm.