Motorcycle Hazard: Aphid Honeydew on Tree-Lined Roads

Sticky/slippery spots under trees on roads cause traction loss, especially wet. Insect ID?

Cause: Aphid Honeydew

Aphids feed in clusters on new growth → suck sap → excrete honeydew (clear, sticky) → falls on surfaces below → black sooty mold grows on it.

Details

• 1/10" long; green, black, gray, brown, pink, red, yellow, lavender
• Cornicles (tubes) on rear secrete defensive substances
• Honeydew glaze = traction hazard; rain changes but doesn't eliminate

Control

Insecticides (municipal/roadside management).