This Is What An Invasive Species Looks Like - Spotted Lanternfly
Photos at the Westport Library and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com
As many Westporters are aware, Fairfield County, Connecticut, is currently facing a growing infestation of Spotted Lanternflies, an invasive insect species known for damaging a wide range of trees and plants.
The Westport Library cafe patio has experienced these annoying pests to a substantial degree, enough to take measures to protect cafe patrons who wish to enjoy the outdoor setting of the patio, as well as to protect one specific tree, a Ginko Biloba as Jesus Torrealba, Westport Library's outstanding Building Maintenance & Facilities Coordinator determined, is apparently a preferred host for these destructive insects. Tasked with dealing with the patio pests, Torrealba has installed the device in the photo above which funnels the bugs into netting where their only destination is a large plastic bag, effectively trapping them inside. Mr. Torrealba used this device, above last year as well to at least make an attempt to mitigate the threat. Mr. Torrealba told WestportLocalPress that the quantity captured in the photo above of the plastic bag is the result of only a few days activity. Torrealba explained that the kit comes with replacement bags which can be swapped out when they become full, and then disposed of. The Riverwalk alongside the Levitt Pavilion is also inundated with the insects according to Mr. Torrealba, who does the walk regularly.
These pests have been observed feeding on economically important crops such as grapes, maples, and fruit trees, raising concerns among local farmers and homeowners. Efforts to control the spread include public awareness campaigns, the use of targeted insecticides, and the removal of the insects’ preferred host plant, Ailanthus, also known as Tree of Heaven This species is a fast-growing, invasive tree native to China. It was introduced to the United States in the late 1700s and has since become widespread, particularly in urban areas. Ailanthus is known for its ability to outcompete native plants, disrupt ecosystems, and damage infrastructure. Despite these measures, the spotted lanternfly continues to pose a significant threat to the region's agricultural health and natural ecosystems.
The above left photo shows the tree at the Westport Library with the insects climbing up toward the traps. The next two show eggs and masses attached to a tree, and removal from the from a post. Those two photos are from Lanternflies.org, an excellent source of information on the issue.
A clear environmental challenge of concern locally, the SLF as it has come to be known has a voracious appetite for plants and trees, posing a significant threat to both the environment and quality of life. This pest feeds on the sap of over 70 plant species using its specialized piercing-sucking mouthparts, showing a strong preference for economically valuable plants such as grapevines, maple trees, black walnut, birch, and willow. The damage caused by their feeding stresses the plants, potentially leading to declining health and even death. If left unchecked, the spotted lanternfly could inflict severe economic harm. A Penn State economic study estimating potential losses of at least $324 million annually in Pennsylvania alone. While Fairfield county has been heavily impacted, widespread infestations are more concentrated in certain areas. The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES) notes that the bug has been detected in all Connecticut counties, but established populations are more prominent in Fairfield and New Haven counties.
A statement from Westport Tree warden Ben Sykas, when queried on the topic and town efforts to combat the threat posed by the pest, read, “As Tree Warden, my primary focus is public safety. Invasive plant species, including Ailanthus, can pose challenges to public infrastructure and local ecosystems. Decisions regarding specific plants or species are context-dependent and based conditions within my jurisdiction. When needed, guidance from the State or Federal resources is utilized.”
Homeowners should be aware of the need for battling this threat to protect their own trees and plant life.
Resources in addition to Lanternflies.org include UConn College of Agriculture, https://cahnr.uconn.edu/ and the CT State Website, Spotted Lanternfly in Connecticut
A simple, low cost method homeowners might want to utilize as opposed to commercial pesticides which many would rather avoid uses Dawn dish washing soap as shown on YouTube:
For those who might want to determine if they have Ailanthus, or Tree of Heaven on their property, visit Nature.org
Three Little Birds...
Well, they are not really so little. The much loved Bob Marley song which tells us "Don't Worry about a thing, 'Cause every little thing gonna be alright" came to mind when we took this photo of these three Cormorants.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com
Cormorants like these can often be spotted sitting on the large log which has sat in the middle of the Saugatuck, just north of the Ruth Steinkraus Cohen bridge for several years now. It is a frequent resting spot for these large, black birds with the orange spots on their faces. The Cormorant most common in North America is typically 27.6-35.4 inches long and weighs 42.3-88.2 ounces , with a wingspan of 44.9-48.4 inches.
There is a reason they are all sitting on the log with their wings open. They are not waterfowl, like ducks. Water just "rolls off a ducks back" as we all know. This occurs because of the physical structure of their feathers in additional to a special oil they secret which coats their feathers making them fairly waterproof. Cormorants on the other hand have feathers that absorb water, which helps them dive more easily by reducing buoyancy. This is why you often see them perched with their wings spread out, drying their feathers after a dive.
These three likely just finished several dives to feed. Cormorants are skilled at catching fish, using their long, hooked bills to snag prey and their webbed feet to maneuver underwater. Some species have even been trained by humans to help with fishing, says Quark Expeditions. When watching them in the water you will see them disappear as they dive and come up some distance from where they dove. Cormorants can stay underwater for up to 2 minutes while hunting for food, though most dives are shorter, typically around 30-70 seconds. Although not common they can actually dive to depths of 25 feet or more.
We borrowed this musical addition technique that we love from Dan Woog, 06880 blog. Always worth a listen, this song inspiration is often linked to Marley's appreciation for nature and the joy he found in the songs of small birds, which he saw as messengers of positivity.
Here are links to Bob Marley and The Wailers, Three Little Birds: Album Version
And also, here is the Official Music Video which has a wonderful animation sequence
You can learn more about the story of this much loved Marley song here: ‘Three Little Birds’: The Story Behind Bob Marley’s Slow-Burning Classic
At Home With The Martins Of Sherwood Island
Two male Purple Martins check each other out from their perches which are a part of the gourd station at their colony at Sherwood Island State Park.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Purple Martin families have called Sherwood Island State Park home since 2013, when the colony was first established by Tina Green, an avid birdwatcher and enthusiast of the species. The largest member of the swallow family, Purple Martins have thrived in the park thanks to Ms. Green's dedication and expertise and the help of bird loving volunteers. As a former president of the Connecticut Ornithological Association and a current member of the Avian Records Committee of Connecticut, she has played a significant role in promoting awareness and conservation of these birds in the region.
We have Phil Donahue to thank for this gift of nature
When former Westport resident Phil Donahue, one of the first and most well-known daytime talk show hosts, sold his Beachside Avenue home, he generously donated 24 Martin gourds to the Friends of Sherwood Island State Park. This contribution supports the park’s ongoing efforts to provide habitat for native purple martins, helping to sustain the local bird population and enhance the natural environment for visitors and wildlife alike. The donation reflected Donahue’s love of nature and commitment to the Westport community and its natural preserves.
Milan Bull, Senior Director of Science and Conservation at The Connecticut Audubon Society, collaborated with Ms. Green and the Friends of Sherwood Island to establish the colony. Their efforts quickly proved successful, and twelve years later, all 36 gourds in the colony were fully occupied for the first time since its creation. This milestone marked a significant achievement in the ongoing conservation work, demonstrating the positive impact of their dedication and collaborative approach.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
The Sherwood Island site was very attractive to the Martins due to its location in a quiet section of the park adjacent to the Nature Center near the east end of the park. Martins are known for being selective about their nesting sites, and in the eastern United States, they typically only nest in gourds like those seen here or other artificial houses provided by humans. This preference makes the carefully placed gourds at Sherwood Island an ideal habitat, encouraging these birds to settle and thrive in the area.
After spending a few months in South America, primarily Brazil, Purple Martins begin their long migration back to North America. Adult Purple Martins typically arrive between January and May, followed by subadults arriving 4 to 12 weeks after the adults. About 4 to 6 weeks after arrival, the birds start nest building, preparing suitable sites for raising their young. At dawn, males engage in singing, which plays a crucial role in territory defense and attracting mates. Following this, copulation occurs, leading to egg laying. Once the eggs are laid, incubation begins, with adults taking turns to keep the eggs warm until they hatch.
Come watch as we band our Purple Martins
On Friday, July 11th at 9:30 a.m. at the Nature Center Ms. Green and a crew of volunteers will be banding the Martin colony. This unique opportunity allows the public to witness the banding process. Volunteers can lower the gourds using a pulley system to safely access the birds for banding and during the season to monitor the Martin colony’s progress and health. Each bird will be carefully banded to record vital data and potentially track their movements.
Bird banding data are invaluable tools in both scientific research and conservation management efforts. By allowing for the individual identification of birds, banding enables detailed studies of dispersal patterns and migration routes, which are critical for understanding species’ movement and habitat use. Additionally, banding provides insights into behavior and social structures within bird populations, helping researchers assess interactions and hierarchy. Long-term data collected through banding activities contribute to estimates of life-span, survival rates, and reproductive success, all of which are essential for monitoring population dynamics. These insights inform conservation strategies aimed at promoting population growth and ensuring the sustainability of various bird species.
Afterward, the gourds will be raised back into place, returning the colony to its normal status. We invite everyone interested in bird conservation and nature to join us for this educational event.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Three male Purple Martins share their perches. The bird on the left has a visible band, the orange object on the birds leg.
Much more to see and enjoy on “The Island”
The Purple Martins make quite a journey from South America. We know that many New Yorkers flock (bad pun) to Westport to enjoy the summer and our beaches. Perhaps these pigeons flew up from New York to enjoy some seaside dining. Although they are not usually found at the beach as park employees told WestportLocal, there they were, very busy this day and seemed to be quite pleased to be enjoying whatever morsels they found as the foraged.
A short walk from the nature center will take visitors along a path to the north where bunnies are busy as well, enjoying their favorite meal.
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
Speaking of meals, the picnic tables at Sherwood Island State Park beckon visitors to enjoy an afternoon picnic. One caveat; if you walk away from your picnic table voracious seagulls thank you for leaving your food unguarded.
As Metro North and Amtrak trains rumble past the Osprey platform at the north end of the park, mama Osprey is unconcerned, instead focused on feeding her chicks which are approaching the age when they will take their first flight. The Osprey below may possibly be her mate searching Long Island Sound for a fresh fish dinner to bring home to the nest..
Photos and Story By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress.com Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
A Look At Westport's Biggest Party As The July 4th Holiday Winds Down
July 4th is a very special time in the town of Westport. Not everyone in town was at Compo Beach on Wednesday, but it almost seemed that way as thousands began to arrive as early as 6:00AM (or earlier, perhaps) to stake out their turf with a careful arrangement of lawn and beach chairs and some fairly large sized tables where their carefully curated foods and beverages would be set.
Compo Beach looking east alongside Soundview Dr. was filled with celebrants and many strolled Soundview visiting with friend and neighbors as they awaited the big moment when the first shell s would be fired (see below Fireworks Spectacular)
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress. Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
The party at Bob's Beach Shack on Soundview was in full swing where friends gathered to enjoy the day. Nearby, a newbie was introduced to the essential sport of beer pong. Compo lifeguards strolled along after their shift, and new Chief of the Westport Police Department David Farrell worked his first shift as Chief, along with Deputy Chief Ryan Paulsson.
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress. Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
here were a few empty chairs here and there, waiting for the rest of the groups of friends to gather.
For the last few years this group of friends grabs this prime spot on South Beach and decorates their tent with the Stars & Stripes.
Pictured here are: Lauren LoFrisco, Andrew Montgomery, Bethany Kapadia, Amanda Montgomery, Anne Izzi, Carl Weiss, Richard Bernard, Eric Wuchiski, Ketan Kapadia, Kevin Paradis, Lisa Pinney-Keusch, Andy Levi, Cheryl Driscol, Anyhony LoFrisco.
The mood throughout the day was one of excitement and joy as folks took selfies, recorded their kids having a blast. These four friends took up residence on the landmark Compo Beach cannons where they were happy to spend a bit of their day together. Others raised a glass to toast the day while others enjoyed a bit of sports with the Melissa & Dog barge in the harbor, surrounded by pleasure craft where more party goers found their happy place.
As the sun set the lighted toys and sparklers created a glow up and down the beach as the start of the show drew near.
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress. Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
With all the wonderful foods from one end of Compo Beach to another, the lines at Hook'D on the Sound were short. At right, Dan Woog captured an image for 06880 of former first selectmanJim Marpe, Jen Tooker, Charlie Haberstroh and RTM member Jimmy Izzo.
Photos By J.C. Martin For WestportLocalPress. Click on an image to enlarge and open gallery.
The barge is ready to go and is surrounded by boaters waiting for the show to begin.