This program provides a second line of defense against exotic pests through the early detection of new introductions before they become widely established. Traps are placed in primarily urban areas to detect such insect pests as Mediterranean and Mexican fruit flies, Gypsy Moth, Japanese Beetle, and a host of other targeted pest species. Through early detection the likelihood of these pests becoming established in the state is lessened and the cost and environmental impact of eradiation is minimized.

According to the USDA-sponsored HungryPests.com website, "invasive pests are any kind of damaging animals, insects, plants or plant diseases that are not native to the State. Invasive pests can rapidly expand their populations and feed on local plants, crops and other species. As they compete with native species for resources, they cause damage to local ecosystems and wreak havoc on crops and local plant life.

Use the Pest Tracker to identify and track particular invasive pests such as the Light Brown Apple Moth, the Mexican Fruit Fly, and many more.

Light Brown Apple Moth	Japanese Dodder

Mediterranean Fruit Fly	Japanese Beetle	Gypsy Moth
Glassy Winged Sharp Shooter	Khapra Beetle	Melon Fruit Fly
Oriental Fruit Fly	Pine Shoot Moth	Mexican Fruit Fly