Spotted lanternfly spotted for first time in Canada, detected in Windsor

Canada's first confirmed presence of the spotted lanternfly was reported after the Canadian Food Inspection Agency detected the pest in Windsor. Although local residents had noted the insect previously, this marks the inaugural agency-verified finding, according to the Invasive Species Centre. Originating from southeast Asia and first recorded in the United States in Pennsylvania in 2014, the lanternfly feeds on the sap of more than 100 plant species, posing a serious risk to grapevines, other crops, forests and even backyard gardens.

The Centre warned that unchecked spread could cause extensive economic, ecological and social damage. Canadians are asked to photograph any suspected insects or egg masses, note the exact location, and submit the information to the CFIA, which may conduct site surveys and collect specimens. Guidance on recognizing adults, nymphs and egg clusters, as well as steps to prevent transport of the pest, was also released.