Canada's New $28 Million Bug Problem: Japanese Beetles Are Taking Over

Karmactive Staff

Fourteen Japanese beetles detected in Newfoundland this year - but this time females capable of laying 60 eggs each were among them.

Photo Source: Laslovarga (Animalia)

Climate change created the perfect storm - milder winters now allow beetle larvae to survive Canadian cold for the first time. 

Photo Source: Zech Smith (Animalia)

These metallic destroyers feast on over 300 plant species, turning lush gardens into skeletal remains within weeks.

Photo Source: Daniel Herms (Animalia)

British Columbia faces $28.1 million in potential annual losses if these pests establish widespread populations.

Photo Source: MostlyDross (Animalia)

The invasion timeline reveals a troubling pattern - from one tourist's car in 1939 to six provinces under threat today.

Photo Source: Steven Katovich (Animalia)

Adult beetles create "skeletonized" leaves above ground while their grubs destroy root systems below - a double attack.

Photo Source: Animalia

Vancouver celebrated zero beetle detections in 2024, but Port Coquitlam discovered over 500 beetles the same year.

Photo Source: Animalia

Kamloops officials established Canada's newest regulated area on June 13, 2025, restricting plant and soil movement.

Photo Source: Coniferconifer (Animalia)

Each female can deposit 60 eggs in moist soil - creating exponential population growth within a single season.

Photo Source: Melissa McMasters (Animalia)

Golf courses face $13.6 million annually in British Columbia alone as grubs turn pristine greens into dead patches.

Photo Source: Rison Thumboor  (Animalia)

Early morning hand-picking offers homeowners the best chance - beetles remain sluggish before temperatures rise.

Photo Source: Jlu (Animalia)

Acelepryn larvicide treatments target underground grubs while remaining safe for pets, humans, and pollinators.

Photo Source: Katja Schulz  (Animalia)

Newfoundland officials remain hopeful that immediate action can prevent full infestation - but time is running out.

Photo Source: Ryan Hodnett (Animalia)

Report sightings to Canadian Food Inspection Agency immediately - citizen surveillance could save millions in crop damage.

Photo Source: Ryan Hodnett (Animalia)