On March 27th, 2024, a flatbed truck carrying a metal art structure originating in New York and headed to Petaluma, California was stopped at the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) Agricultural Inspection Station in Truckee, California due to live spotted lanternfly (SLF) egg masses being present on the structure (Fig. 1).

Entry of the structure was denied, and the truck reported to the Nevada Department of Agriculture for inspection and treatment for SLF eggs on April 2, 2024. Approximately 30 egg masses were removed and destroyed (Fig. 2). The structure was power washed with soap and water and cleared to enter California with instructions to not offload the structure at the destination until inspected and released by the Sonoma County Department of Agriculture/Weights & Measures.

Upon arrival for inspection, the Sonoma County agricultural inspector found the structure already offloaded from the truck and during an in-depth inspection of the structure, three more SLF egg masses were discovered. Additional inspectors were called in, and with the help of operators and equipment at the destination site, the agricultural inspectors were able to inspect all surface areas and ensure the structure was free of SLF egg masses.

To put this into perspective, spotted lanternfly egg masses contain 30 to 50 eggs each, meaning that this structure had between 990 to 1,650 live SLF eggs arriving approximately a month prior to the expected hatching time. 

Figure 1. Metal art structure in transit to California. Photo credit: Sonoma County Dept of Agriculture/W&M

Figure 2. Spotted lanternfly egg masses discovered on metal beams of an art structure. Photo credit: Sonoma County Dept of Agriculture/W&M

In July of 2021, the CDFA established a quarantine to prohibit the introduction of the spotted lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula) into California (Release #21-077). The quarantine prohibits the entry into California of SLF, its host plants and plant parts (including firewood), shipping containers, and a variety of articles, including outdoor household articles and conveyances (cars, boats, trailers, tractors, etc.) originating from any area where an SLF infestation exists without proper documentation.

Nymphs cannot fly and adults do not readily fly away when approached so both can be easily collected. Early detection is key for preventing the establishment of this species. Californians need to remain vigilant and together, we can all play a role in keeping the spotted lanternfly out of California.

Adapted from an article by Cindy Kron, Ph.D published in CAPCA's magazine, "The Advisor" published August 2024.