Spotted lanternfly
Spot it? Snap it, catch it and report it

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.
If you think you have found the spotted lanternfly or its egg masses, report it to the CFIA immediately.
Report a spotted lanternfly sighting
What you can do
If you think you have seen the spotted lanternfly or its egg masses:
- take a photo or video
- catch it and put it into a sealable container
- report it to the CFIA
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. Also check your yard, as SLF may be on your trees and plants.
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.
Snap it (take a photo or video) and report it
Report your sighting to the CFIA. If you think you have found SLF in Canada, we may ask you to send us a photo or video, if needed, after you report it.
Catch it
Put the insect or scrape the egg masses into a sealable container. We will contact you if we need to collect the insect, and share details on how and when to dispose of it.
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
- Infographic: Spotted lanternfly
- 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
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