Carin Weidner and her family have become self-made experts at getting rid of spotted lanternflies at their Collegeville home, writes Ximena Conde for WHYY.

The family has been dealing with the pest throughout the entire summer.

“We can’t even go outside most of August and part of September,” said Weidner.

To make a bad situation somewhat bearable, the pair has begun finding fun ways to get rid of the invasive insect and then posting their escapades on their YouTube channel.

One of the methods they tried was taking a broom and karate-chopping the critters to entertain their young daughter. This proved to be less than successful, so much so they warned others against trying it.

Still, they are aware that spotted lanternfly is no laughing matter. The Southeast Asian insect feeds on the sap of trees and plants, leaving behind a trail of feces that attract a mold that weakens and then kills the plant.

To find better ways to kill the critters, especially ahead of the egg-laying season, Weidner has also started a Facebook group where members share new sightings and ways to kill the lanternfly and its offspring.

Read more about the issue at the WHYY by clicking here.