Residents of Scripps Ranch are growing increasingly concerned about the presence of lerp, a protective cover produced by larvae of Psyllid bugs, on Eucalyptus trees in the area. Lerp itself is not the issue; however, the small insects responsible for its production pose a different problem. These insects feed on plant juices, causing premature leaf death and exposing the trees to potential diseases. Bob Ilko, a resident who experienced the devastating Cedar fire in 2003, understands the worries of his neighbors. During that time, Eucalyptus trees infested with Lerp were observed to ignite more easily. MORE: https://www.cbs8.com/article/news/local/infestation-raises-concerns-about-fire-hazards-in-scripps-ranch/509-ae633ccf-9c5c-4394-99bc-42d70814e9ac