Officials have begun deploying traps throughout the St. John’s metro region as part of a targeted effort to eradicate the invasive Japanese beetle. According to the Department of Forestry, the initiative follows the detection of 14 beetles across eight sites in 2024, a significant shift from the 100 detections recorded at 26 sites the previous year.
Strategy for Eradication
The Department of Forestry intends to utilize a larvicide application program to eliminate the pest population. Department official Sabrina Ellsworth stated that the treatment is regulated and approved by Health Canada. Ellsworth noted that the application is designed to be safe for birds, bees, pets, and humans.
The area of concern in the St. John’s region has expanded following an increase in the number of sites where the invasive beetles were identified during the 2023 season.
What Happens Next
While traps are currently being placed, no beetles have been detected in the region so far this year. Officials believe this is because the insects have not yet emerged from the soil. If the eradication program follows its intended course, the spread of the beetle may be contained through the targeted larvicide application. Residents who encounter the beetles are advised not to kill them; instead, they should capture the insects in a sealed jar and contact government officials to report the finding.
The transition from 100 detections in 2023 to 14 in 2024 highlights the volatility of invasive species management. The shift from monitoring to an active larvicide program suggests that officials are moving toward a containment strategy to prevent the beetle from establishing a permanent foothold in the local ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the larvicide used against the beetles dangerous to pets?
No. According to department official Sabrina Ellsworth, the larvicide is approved by Health Canada and is not harmful to pets, people, birds, or bees.
Why are officials setting up traps now if no beetles have been found?
Traps are being deployed in anticipation of the beetles’ emergence. Officials believe the insects have not yet surfaced for the season.
What should I do if I find a Japanese beetle in my garden?
You should not squish the beetle. Instead, capture it in a sealed jar and contact government officials to report the sighting.
How concerned should local gardeners be regarding the potential impact of these beetles on native plants?
