On September 15, 2026, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) confirmed the first detection of SLF in Windsor, Ontario which marked the first official detection in Canada. See CFIA’s announcement here.
Movement restrictions have been put in place at the detection site in Windsor 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 inform next steps according to CFIA’s Spotted Lanternfly response framework.
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What does this mean for Ontario grape growers and wineries?
Spotted Lanternfly is a regulated pest in Ontario and therefore any findings must be reported to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
It’s important to remember that right now is a HIGH RISK period for hitchhiking adult SLF. Currently, Ontario grape growers face the highest risk with respect to damage to grapevines by SLF feeding, but growers of all commodities must be vigilant, as SLF can spread on conveyances (vehicles, farm equipment, rail cars, tractor trailers).
What to look for
SLF is now in the adult life stage. It is about 2-3 cm long with pinkish-grey wings with black spots and black veins at the tips. When the forewings are open, their distinct bright red underwings become visible. The adults will “hop” when startled but they can also fly.
Egg laying starts around the fall equinox (September 23 in 2026): look for 2.5 cm-long greyish/brown smears of a waxy coating that may crack over time. Underneath the protective covering, sometimes partially visible, are multiple vertical rows of eggs, each roughly the size of a grain of rice. These eggs can be laid on almost ANYTHING – grape posts, bins, pallets, picking boxes, vehicles, equipment.
Recommended steps for grape growers in Ontario
Do a 5-10 min briefing with all staff (especially including any shipping/receiving staff) to refresh on what to look for and the importance of reporting it.
Take the extra time to inspect everything entering your facility from the eastern US or through the Windsor area. SLF has already been intercepted on shipments of pots this year and found in pallets and other shipping materials in the past. Prevent the Spread
This detection is very close to the vineyards of Essex County and spotted lanternflies are excellent hitchhikers. To prevent the spread of this insect and its devastating effect on Ontario’s grape and wine industry, it is crucial that any personal and commercial vehicles and vessels traveling in and out the City of Windsor and the broader Essex County area be thoroughly checked for any life stages of spotted lanternfly. Items that have been stored outdoors, such as grape bins, should also be checked. This travel checklist outlines how to check a vehicle and outdoor items for spotted lanternfly. If you suspect you’ve found SLF report it to CFIA using this link.
If you have preferred host plants nearby your growing or shipping areas (such as tree of heaven, wild grape vines or black walnut), you are strongly encouraged to scout these plants for adults right now.
Take time to review best management practices (BMPs) for grape growers. Refer to presentations from 2026 OFVC Preparing for the arrival of SLF and Impacts and management of SLF
Additional information about SLF biology, photos, scouting practices, and more can also be found on the OMAFA crop IPM website: Ontario Crop IPM – Grapes
Members of the public can also help: check out the invasive species center page for more information.
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