The spotted lanternfly sightings are some of the first in southwestern Ontario for the invasive insect species, considered a significant threat to wine and tree fruit crops.
The invasive insect was seen in Windsor in September
South Windsor resident Catherine Archer knew that the bug she recently killed was a spotted lanternfly — an invasive insect that can devastate agriculture. CBC’s Dalson Chen spoke with Nicole Mielewczyk of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Tom O’Brien of Cooper’s Hawk Vineyards, and Madison Sturba of the Invasive Species Centre about the disturbing discovery.
The moment the colourful bug landed in front of her, south Windsor resident Catherine Archer knew its species — and the threat that it posed.
That’s why she immediately stepped on it.
The offending insect was a spotted lanternfly: An invasive species that can have a devastating impact on agriculture — especially grapevines and fruit trees.
“It’s beautiful. It’s an absolutely gorgeous bug. It has bright red inside and the wings really do look like a spotted lantern,” Archer told CBC Windsor.
“But it’s an extremely invasive species… I’d seen a Michigan news report about these spotted lanternflies. They said to stomp it, take a picture and report it.”
The State of Michigan has been concerned about the spotted lanternfly since 2018. At this point, it’s been detected throughout the southeastern areas of the state — to the dismay of vineyard and orchard owners.
But Archer’s encounter with the spotted lanternfly is one of its first sightings in southwestern Ontario. Previous incidents have been limited to Hamilton and the Niagara region.
“I think awareness is going to be key. I think if people know about it, we might stand a chance,” Archer said. “This is one that can do a lot of damage.”
