In an effort to prevent its introduction and spread into Canada, spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula, Hemiptera: Fulgoridae) has been regulated by the CFIA since 2018. It can feed on more than 100 species of trees and plants. It is not known to be present in Canada, but poses a significant threat to the grape, tree fruit, wine and ornamental nursery industries.
What you can do
If you think you have seen the spotted lanternfly or its egg masses:
- take a photo or video
- catch the insect or scrape the egg masses, and put it into a sealable container
- report it to the CFIA immediately
Report a spotted lanternfly sighting
We will contact you about the photo or video or if we need to collect the insect, as well as share details on how and when to dispose of it.
If you are travelling back from infested areas of the US, it's important not to accidentally transport these pests into Canada. Check your car, camper, trailer or RV before making the return trip. Be sure to check any camping gear or equipment you have with you before returning to Canada.
Inspect items stored outside for egg masses, including your vehicle and patio furniture. Look closely at things like tarps, yard and garden items, and sports equipment. Check your yard as well, as the spotted lanternfly could be on your trees and plants.
Help us by also reporting tree-of-heaven
Report sightings of the tree-of-heaven using the online app of your choice (for example: iNaturalist or EDDMapS). The CFIA is targeting locations of this tree to detect spotted lanternfly, as it is one of its preferred hosts.
Spot it: life stages of the spotted lanternfly
Spotted lanternfly egg masses are laid in late summer. These egg masses can survive winter temperatures and hatch in the spring. Find out what these stages look like, so you know what to look for.
Spotted lanternfly observations
While the CFIA has not confirmed any established populations of spotted lanternfly in Canada at this time, we receive reports, directly and indirectly, of spotted lanternfly observations in various locations.
Find out where these sightings have been.
How the spotted lanternfly could be introduced into Canada
There are many natural and human-assisted pathways by which the spotted lanternfly could be introduced into Canada.
Human-assisted spread can include:
- movement on cargo and containers
- camping gear and outdoor equipment
- patio furniture
- trucks and cars
- movement of plants and plant materials (including nursery plants, logs and firewood)
Don't forget to check anything you have stored outside while travelling to infested areas for the egg masses or the insect itself.
More information
- Plant pest surveillance
- Infographic: Spotted lanternfly
- Information card
- Spotted lanternfly fact sheet
- North American Plant Protection Organization (NAPPO) pest alerts
- United States Department of Agriculture – Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service: Spotted Lanternfly (including distribution information)
- Invasive Species Centre – Spotted lanternfly poster, factsheet and sentinel site signage
- RMD–22-03: Pest Risk Management Decision Document: Risk management for spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula White)