Spotted Lanternfly: What Nova Scotia Growers Need to Know

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has recently strengthened Canada's response to the spotted lanternfly (SLF), Lycorma delicatula, an invasive pest that poses a serious threat to vineyards, orchards, nurseries, forestry, and many agricultural crops.

While spotted lanternfly has not been detected in Nova Scotia, recent findings in southwestern Ontario have prompted new regulatory measures aimed at preventing its spread across Canada.


Why is this insect a concern?
Spotted lanternfly feeds on the sap of more than 100 plant species, including grapevines, apples, stone fruit, hops, maple, and various ornamental trees. Heavy infestations can weaken plants, reduce yields, and create significant management challenges.

Ontario Regulated Areas
Following confirmed detections, the CFIA has established regulated areas in:

• Essex County
• City of Windsor
• Township of Pelee
• Municipality of Chatham-Kent

Movement restrictions now apply to many materials leaving these areas, including certain nursery stock, wood products, outdoor equipment, and other items that could carry spotted lanternfly egg masses or insects.

What Nova Scotia Growers Can Do

Inspect incoming shipments
Pay particular attention to:

• Egg masses on outdoor equipment, pallets, vehicles, and containers
• Adults or nymphs on plant material
• Shipments originating from regulated areas

Egg masses can be difficult to detect and may be attached to virtually any outdoor surface.

Know how to identify the pest
Adults are approximately 2.5 cm long with distinctive grey forewings and bright red hindwings. Immature stages are black with white spots, becoming red and black in later stages.





Report suspicious sightings
If you suspect you have found spotted lanternfly, photograph the insect, collect a sample if possible, and report it to the CFIA immediately. Early detection and reporting remain the most effective tools for protecting our orchards, vineyards, and nursery industries.

For more information:

• SLF Information Flyer
• CFIA’s Response framework for spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula)
• Import Phytosanitary requirements
• Regulated Areas