The first detection of spotted lanternfly (SLF) has been confirmed in Canada.

On September 15, 2026, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) confirmed the first detection of SLF in Canada in Windsor, Ontario. Movement restrictions have been put in place to prevent the movement of regulated materials, including potentially infested plant materials.

Surveillance in the surrounding area is on-going to determine the extent of the infestation and next steps.

Spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula, Hemiptera: Fulgoridae) has been regulated in Canada since 2018. It can feed on more than 100 species of trees and plants, however, significant impacts from this feeding have only been observed on grapes.

CFIA encourages citizens to report sightings of the tree-of-heaven using the online app of your choice (for example: iNaturalist or EDDMapS). The agency is targeting locations of this tree to detect spotted lanternfly, as it is one of its preferred hosts.

Source: Canadian Food Inspection Agency September 16, 2026 news release