Overview
- The Canadian Food Inspection Agency confirmed a live spotted lanternfly detection in Windsor on Sept. 15 and has begun local surveys to map the infestation.
- CFIA has imposed movement restrictions on regulated plant material near the site and asks residents to follow a “spot it, snap it, catch it, report it” protocol for sightings.
- Officials warn the insect feeds on more than 100 plant species and is known to damage and kill grapevines, which could threaten vineyards and the wine industry if it spreads.
- U.S. states are reporting large fall numbers and urging immediate action — kill adults and nymphs, scrape and destroy egg masses, and check vehicles and outdoor gear before travel.
- The pest arrived in North America in 2014 and favors the invasive tree-of-heaven; fall egg-laying makes scraping eggs into soapy water or alcohol now the key step to reduce next spring’s hatches.