Invasive species could be hiding in your holiday decor

Invasive Species Hiding in Your Holiday Decor: A Threat to Your Health and the Environment

As the holiday season approaches and we begin to adorn our homes with festive decorations, it’s important to be aware of the potential threat of invasive species lurking in our holiday decor. The Invasive Species Centre (ISC), a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting the environment and economy from invasive species, has issued a warning about the presence of invasive spongy moths and spotted lanternflies in Christmas trees and wreaths.

The spongy moth is a particularly harmful species that can cause significant damage to trees, leading to defoliation, tree mortality, and economic losses in the forest industry. In addition, contact with spongy moth larvae can result in skin irritation and rashes. The spotted lanternfly, a regulated pest under the Plant Protection Act, poses a threat to grape and wine production in regions such as southern Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia.

To combat the spread of these invasive species, the ISC recommends inspecting holiday decor for egg masses and promptly removing them. The organization suggests using the “scrape-soak-scrap” method for spongy moth egg masses, which involves carefully scraping off the mass, soaking it in a dish soap and water mixture, and disposing of it properly. For spotted lanternfly egg masses, it is advised to scrape them off into a plastic bag filled with hand sanitizer or rubbing alcohol and report the finding to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

In recent years, sightings and interceptions of spotted lanternflies have been reported in various Canadian provinces, highlighting the importance of vigilance in monitoring and controlling invasive species. Other invasive pests that may be found in holiday decor include buckthorn, English ivy, and barberry, which can spread through improper disposal. The ISC cautions against purchasing or using wreaths containing these invasive plants to prevent further spread.

As we celebrate the holiday season, let us spread joy, not pests, by being mindful of the potential threat of invasive species in our holiday decor. By taking proactive measures to identify and remove invasive species, we can protect the health of our decorations, the economy, and ourselves from the harmful effects of these invasive pests.