Invasive Insects North Carolina: Counties, NC Department of Agriculture, NC Forest Service

Which invasive insects are currently found in North Carolina, which counties have confirmed populations, and what should you do if you discover one?

This comprehensive guide from D & D Pest Control Co. examines important invasive insects, their identifying characteristics, documented county locations, interesting facts, and the steps residents can take to prevent their spread.

We also explain how the North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (NCDA&CS), NC State University Cooperative Extension, and local pest management professionals help protect North Carolina communities.

Important: County distribution information changes as insects spread and new surveys are completed. A confirmed sighting does not necessarily mean a breeding population has become established. Always consult the official state resources linked throughout this guide for updated information.

What Is an Invasive Insect?

An invasive insect is a nonnative insect that becomes established and causes, or is likely to cause, ecological, agricultural, economic, or other harm.

Not every insect introduced from another country becomes invasive. Some introduced insects establish populations without creating significant damage.

Invasive insects become particularly concerning when they reproduce rapidly, damage economically important plants, lack effective natural enemies, or move into areas where native plants and wildlife have limited defenses against them.

North Carolina’s diverse geography provides opportunities for several types of invasive insects to survive. The state includes the Appalachian Mountains, Piedmont, Coastal Plain, agricultural regions, commercial shipping facilities, military installations, suburban developments, and extensive hardwood and pine forests.

These environments make invasive insect monitoring particularly important.

Why Invasive Insects Are a Serious Concern in North Carolina

Invasive insect populations can affect much more than backyard gardens.

• Forest damage: Wood-boring insects and foliage-feeding caterpillars can weaken or kill trees.
• Agricultural losses: Invasive insects may damage soybeans, grapes, fruit trees, vegetables, and nursery plants.
• Residential pest problems: Certain species invade homes, congregate on siding, or establish colonies in lawns.
• Public health concerns: Imported fire ants deliver painful stings that can cause serious allergic reactions in susceptible individuals.
• Environmental damage: Some invasive insects disrupt plant communities and contribute to the loss of important native trees.
• Economic consequences: Infestations may increase costs associated with pest management, crop protection, tree removal, landscape maintenance, and agricultural inspections.

Residents can help protect North Carolina’s natural resources by learning how to recognize invasive insects and reporting suspicious discoveries.

Major Invasive Insects Found in North Carolina

1. Spotted Lanternfly (Lycorma delicatula)

The spotted lanternfly is among North Carolina’s most closely monitored invasive insects.

Native to parts of Asia, this colorful planthopper was first detected in the United States in Pennsylvania in 2014. North Carolina confirmed its first established population in 2022.

Although commonly referred to as a fly, the spotted lanternfly is actually a planthopper.

How to Identify a Spotted Lanternfly

Adult spotted lanternflies are approximately one inch long and have:

• Grayish forewings covered with dark spots.
• Distinctive red hindwings with black markings.
• A yellow-and-black abdomen.
• Black legs and a somewhat flattened body.

Young spotted lanternflies look very different from adults.

Early-stage nymphs are black with white spots. Later-stage nymphs become bright red with black-and-white markings.

Egg masses often resemble irregular patches of dried gray mud and may be attached to trees, vehicles, outdoor equipment, firewood, and other surfaces.

Which North Carolina Counties Have Established Spotted Lanternfly Populations?

According to the NCDA&CS announcement dated February 10, 2026, established spotted lanternfly populations have been confirmed in seven counties:

• Forsyth County: First established populations detected in 2022, including the Kernersville area.
• Guilford County: Established populations confirmed in 2022 near the Forsyth County border.
• Rockingham County: Established populations detected around Reidsville in 2025.
• Caldwell County: Established populations confirmed around Lenoir in 2025.
• Davidson County: Established populations announced in February 2026, including locations along Interstate 85 and Interstate 285.
• Rowan County: Established populations confirmed in 2026, with findings extending toward Salisbury.
• Caswell County: Established populations reported in 2026 near Pelham.

These counties represent confirmed established populations reported in the February 2026 state announcement, not every location where an individual insect has been observed.

Eastern North Carolina residents: Even if your county does not have a confirmed established population, inspect vehicles, landscaping materials, outdoor furniture, and equipment transported from infested regions.

Interesting Facts About Spotted Lanternflies

• Spotted lanternflies feed on plant sap rather than chewing holes in leaves.
• They can feed on more than 100 species of plants, according to NCDA&CS.
• Grapevines are among the agricultural plants of greatest concern.
• Tree-of-heaven, itself an invasive plant, is an important preferred host.
• They produce honeydew, a sticky, sugary waste product that promotes black sooty mold.
• Spotted lanternflies are capable of hitchhiking on cars, trailers, equipment, and outdoor materials.
• Egg masses can survive winter temperatures and hatch when conditions become favorable.
• Young spotted lanternflies look completely different from adults.

What Should You Do If You Find a Spotted Lanternfly?

Photograph the insect or suspected egg mass and record the location. Include a coin or ruler for scale when possible.

Submit suspected sightings through the official North Carolina Spotted Lanternfly Reporting Portal.

Reporting requirements may differ within established infestation areas. Review the official state instructions before submitting reports.

Learn more: NC State Extension Spotted Lanternfly Identification and Management Guide.

2. Emerald Ash Borer (Agrilus planipennis)

The emerald ash borer is a small metallic-green beetle that has caused widespread destruction of ash trees throughout North America.

Originally from Asia, the emerald ash borer was first detected in the United States in 2002 and in North Carolina in 2013.

Its larvae feed beneath the bark of ash trees, damaging the tissues responsible for transporting water and nutrients.

How to Identify Emerald Ash Borer Damage

• Small, metallic-green adult beetles.
• D-shaped exit holes in ash tree bark.
• Serpentine feeding tunnels beneath the bark.
• Thinning tree canopies.
• Dead branches and declining crowns.
• New shoots developing along tree trunks.
• Increased woodpecker activity on infested trees.

Where Is Emerald Ash Borer Found in North Carolina?

Emerald ash borer was first confirmed in North Carolina in 2013 and has since spread across much of the state.

Unlike the spotted lanternfly, emerald ash borer is not limited to a small group of recently established county populations.

The latest confirmed distribution and regulatory information should be checked through the NCDA&CS County-by-County Plant Pest Information.

Interesting Facts About Emerald Ash Borers

• Adult beetles are considerably smaller than many people expect.
• The damaging stage is the larva feeding beneath tree bark.
• Ash trees may remain infested for some time before obvious symptoms appear.
• White ash, green ash, Carolina ash, and pumpkin ash are susceptible.
• Infested firewood can transport this insect into new areas.
• Early identification and appropriate treatment may help protect valuable ash trees.

Homeowners with declining ash trees should consult a qualified arborist or local Cooperative Extension office before selecting treatment options.

Source: NC State Extension – Emerald Ash Borer.

3. Spongy Moth (Lymantria dispar dispar)

The spongy moth, formerly called the gypsy moth, is an invasive forest pest whose caterpillars feed on the leaves of hundreds of tree and shrub species.

Heavy populations can remove substantial amounts of foliage from hardwood forests and residential landscapes.

Repeated defoliation may weaken trees and increase their vulnerability to other insects, diseases, and environmental stress.

How to Identify Spongy Moths

Spongy moth caterpillars develop distinctive markings as they mature.

• Five pairs of blue spots along the back.
• Six pairs of red spots behind the blue markings.
• Hairy bodies.
• Feeding damage on hardwood tree leaves.
• Tan or buff-colored egg masses on outdoor surfaces.

Adult male moths are generally brownish and capable of flight. Females of the European spongy moth subspecies are pale and do not fly.

North Carolina Counties Identified for Spongy Moth Management in 2026

On February 17, 2026, NCDA&CS announced proposed treatment activities in portions of:

• Haywood County
• Watauga County
• Stokes County
• Rowan County
• Warren County
• Franklin County
• Currituck County

These counties were identified for specific infestation-management activities. They should not be confused with the official federal quarantine boundaries.

Spongy moth quarantine: North Carolina’s federal spongy moth quarantine includes Currituck County and the northern portion of Dare County.

People moving household goods, recreational vehicles, firewood, or other regulated materials from quarantined areas should review applicable inspection requirements.

Interesting Spongy Moth Facts

• Spongy moth caterpillars feed on more than 300 species of trees and shrubs.
• Oaks are among their preferred hosts.
• Female European spongy moths cannot fly, but their egg masses can travel long distances on human-made objects.
• Egg masses may be deposited on vehicles, trailers, outdoor furniture, and firewood.
• North Carolina operates extensive trapping and monitoring programs to detect developing populations.
• Management may involve biological insecticides or mating-disruption methods, depending on the situation.

Official resource: NCDA&CS Spongy Moth Information.

4. Red Imported Fire Ant (Solenopsis invicta)

Imported fire ants are among the most familiar invasive insect pests affecting homeowners, agricultural properties, playgrounds, parks, and commercial landscapes in Eastern North Carolina.

These ants build colonies in soil and can become aggressive when their nests are disturbed.

Unlike many nuisance ant species, imported fire ants can deliver repeated painful stings.

How to Identify Imported Fire Ants

• Reddish-brown ants of varying worker sizes.
• Soil mounds in lawns, fields, and landscaped areas.
• Rapid movement toward disturbances near active colonies.
• Large colonies containing numerous worker ants.

Fire ant mounds do not always have an obvious opening at the top. Colonies may also establish nests in less conspicuous locations.

Which North Carolina Counties Have Imported Fire Ants?

According to NCDA&CS, portions or all of 81 North Carolina counties were included in the imported fire ant quarantine effective January 1, 2026.

Counties within D & D Pest Control Co.’s Eastern North Carolina service region that are included in the quarantine include:

• Lenoir County
• Pitt County
• Wayne County
• Greene County
• Jones County
• Craven County
• Onslow County

Additional quarantined counties include Carteret, Duplin, Johnston, New Hanover, Beaufort, and numerous other counties across the Coastal Plain and Piedmont.

A quarantine designation identifies a regulated geographic area. It does not mean that fire ants occupy every property within that county.

Visit the NCDA&CS Imported Fire Ant Program for current county boundaries and movement restrictions.

Interesting Facts About Imported Fire Ants

• Imported fire ants were first identified in North Carolina in Brunswick County in 1957.
• Colonies can contain multiple queens under certain conditions.
• Fire ants sometimes establish colonies in electrical equipment and utility areas.
• Mounds may become especially noticeable after rainfall.
• Colonies can spread through natural reproduction and movement of contaminated soil or nursery materials.
• A single disturbed colony can result in multiple stings.
• Professional management often combines inspection, appropriate products, and ongoing prevention.

Professional Fire Ant Treatment in Eastern North Carolina

D & D Pest Control Co. provides professional fire ant management for residential and commercial properties throughout Eastern North Carolina.

Our services include inspection, identification, and treatment recommendations appropriate for the property and applicable product labels.

Learn about our professional Top Choice fire ant treatment service for lawns and landscapes.

For questions about service availability, call (252) 523-8255.

5. Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (Halyomorpha halys)

The brown marmorated stink bug is an invasive insect native to eastern Asia.

It feeds on numerous agricultural crops and ornamental plants and is also known for entering buildings when seeking overwintering shelter.

How to Identify Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs

• Shield-shaped bodies.
• Mottled brown coloration.
• Alternating light and dark bands along the edges of the abdomen.
• Light-colored bands on the antennae.
• A noticeable odor when disturbed or crushed.

North Carolina County Distribution

NC State Extension reported that brown marmorated stink bugs had been confirmed in 80 of North Carolina’s 100 counties as of February 2025.

The species was first detected in North Carolina near Winston-Salem in 2009.

Although widely distributed, its population density varies across the state. NC State Extension notes that the insect has not become as well established in portions of the Coastal Plain as in some mountain and Piedmont regions.

Interesting Facts About Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs

• They can damage peaches, apples, vegetables, and field crops.
• They often gather around buildings as temperatures decline.
• They may enter attics, wall voids, and other sheltered areas.
• They do not reproduce indoors during winter.
• Their defensive odor is one reason homeowners prefer removing them without crushing them.
• Excluding them before winter is often more effective than addressing large numbers after they enter.

Source: NC State Extension – Brown Marmorated Stink Bug.

6. Kudzu Bug (Megacopta cribraria)

The kudzu bug is a small invasive insect native to Asia that was first reported in the southeastern United States in 2009.

Although it feeds on kudzu, it is not simply a beneficial insect that controls an invasive vine.

Kudzu bugs can damage soybeans and become nuisance pests around homes and buildings.

Identification

• Small, rounded or somewhat rectangular body.
• Olive-green to brown coloration.
• Dark speckling.
• Adults approximately one-quarter inch long or smaller.
• Tendency to gather on exterior walls and other surfaces.

Where Are Kudzu Bugs Found?

NC State Extension reported that kudzu bugs had been confirmed in more than 98 North Carolina counties in earlier statewide surveys.

The species became widespread shortly after its introduction, although population levels have declined in some areas due in part to natural biological controls.

They may be encountered near kudzu patches, agricultural fields, residential landscapes, and buildings.

Interesting Facts About Kudzu Bugs

• Kudzu bugs feed on kudzu, soybeans, and certain other legumes.
• They can gather in large numbers on light-colored siding.
• They may enter buildings through gaps around windows, doors, and utility penetrations.
• They release defensive chemicals when disturbed.
• Natural enemies and disease organisms can influence their populations.
• Sealing entry points is an important part of preventing indoor problems.

Source: NC State Extension – Kudzu Bug.

7. Hemlock Woolly Adelgid (Adelges tsugae)

The hemlock woolly adelgid is a tiny invasive sap-feeding insect responsible for significant damage to eastern hemlock and Carolina hemlock trees.

It is particularly important in North Carolina’s mountain forests, where hemlock trees provide shade, wildlife habitat, and important ecological benefits along streams.

Identification

Look for small white, cotton-like masses attached to the bases of hemlock needles.

Infested trees may develop:

• Grayish or thinning foliage.
• Reduced new growth.
• Branch decline.
• Increasing canopy damage.

Where Is It Found?

Hemlock woolly adelgid is a major concern in North Carolina’s mountain regions, where native hemlock trees occur.

Its distribution follows susceptible host trees rather than ordinary residential or county boundaries.

For specific site and county information, consult local forestry specialists or Cooperative Extension.

Interesting Facts

• Hemlock woolly adelgids are extremely small.
• Their white waxy coverings are often easier to see than the insects themselves.
• They feed by extracting nutrients from host trees.
• Heavy infestations can contribute to substantial hemlock decline.
• Biological control and other management strategies are used to protect important hemlock resources.

Source: NC State Extension – Hemlock Woolly Adelgid.

8. Crape Myrtle Bark Scale (Acanthococcus lagerstroemiae)

Crape myrtle bark scale is an introduced insect that attacks crape myrtle trees, a common ornamental plant found throughout North Carolina.

Infestations may cause white waxy deposits on stems, dark sooty mold, reduced flowering, and overall decline in plant appearance.

How to Identify Crape Myrtle Bark Scale

• White or gray waxy material on branches and trunks.
• Small scale insects attached to the bark.
• Pink or orange immature insects.
• Sticky honeydew on foliage or surfaces below the tree.
• Black sooty mold on leaves and branches.

Where Is It Found?

Crape myrtle bark scale occurs in North Carolina and has become an established ornamental plant pest.

It can be encountered wherever susceptible crape myrtle trees grow, including residential neighborhoods, commercial landscapes, parks, and public properties.

Because a comprehensive current county-by-county distribution list is not available in the sources used for this article, homeowners should contact Cooperative Extension for local confirmation.

Interesting Facts

• Crape myrtle bark scale feeds on plant sap.
• Its waxy covering can make the insect difficult to manage with ordinary contact treatments.
• The sticky honeydew supports sooty mold growth.
• Some beneficial lady beetle larvae resemble scale insects.
• Unnecessary broad-spectrum spraying may harm beneficial insects that naturally help control the pest.

Source: NC State Extension – Crape Myrtle Bark Scale Management.

9. Asian Longhorned Beetle: An Important Invasive Species to Watch For

Important distinction: The Asian longhorned beetle is not currently known to occur in North Carolina, according to NCDA&CS.

Nevertheless, this species deserves attention because established populations have been discovered in other states, including South Carolina.

The Asian longhorned beetle is a destructive wood-boring insect that attacks hardwood trees, especially maples.

How to Identify the Asian Longhorned Beetle

• Glossy black body with distinct white spots.
• Very long black-and-white banded antennae.
• Relatively large adult beetles.
• Round exit holes in hardwood trees.
• Egg-laying depressions in tree bark.
• Sawdust-like material associated with larval feeding.

Several native beetles resemble this insect, so professional identification is important.

What Should You Do If You Suspect an Asian Longhorned Beetle?

Photograph the insect and the affected tree. Include a size reference and record the location.

Report suspected discoveries to NCDA&CS at badbug@ncagr.gov.

Do not transport potentially infested firewood, logs, or tree material away from the property before receiving guidance.

Source: NCDA&CS Asian Longhorned Beetle Pest Watch.

North Carolina Invasive Insects by County: 2026 Reference Guide

The following table summarizes important confirmed distributions, quarantine areas, and monitoring priorities reported by North Carolina agricultural and university authorities.

Note: Different species have different reporting systems. A county quarantine, an isolated insect sighting, and an established breeding population are not interchangeable terms.

For more detailed regulatory information, use the official North Carolina Plant Pest Quarantine County Listing.

Invasive Insects Affecting Eastern North Carolina Counties

Eastern North Carolina’s warm summers, mild-to-moderate winters, agricultural landscapes, residential developments, and extensive transportation networks provide suitable conditions for several invasive insect species.

While species distributions differ, homeowners and businesses in the following counties should be familiar with imported fire ants, kudzu bugs, invasive stink bugs, and other introduced pests documented in the state.

Lenoir County

Residents of Kinston, La Grange, Pink Hill, and surrounding communities should pay particular attention to imported fire ants and nuisance insects that enter structures seasonally.

Properties with extensive landscaping, storage buildings, agricultural connections, or frequent deliveries may benefit from routine insect identification and monitoring.

Pitt County

Greenville, Winterville, Ayden, Grifton, and surrounding communities contain residential subdivisions, agricultural fields, university facilities, rental housing, and commercial properties.

Imported fire ants and several invasive nuisance insect species can create problems in these environments.

Wayne County

Goldsboro and surrounding Wayne County communities should monitor imported fire ants in lawns, commercial landscapes, and recreational areas.

Property owners should also watch for unusual insects damaging ornamental plants or hardwood trees.

Greene County

Snow Hill, Hookerton, and nearby agricultural communities have landscapes where invasive insects may affect both residential properties and agricultural production.

Identifying the insect correctly is particularly important before selecting an insecticide or other management strategy.

Jones County

Trenton and surrounding Jones County communities contain agricultural land, wooded properties, and rural residential landscapes.

Residents should watch for imported fire ants and unfamiliar insects affecting trees, crops, or landscaping.

Craven County

New Bern and surrounding Craven County communities include wooded neighborhoods, commercial landscaping, waterfront properties, and agricultural areas.

These varied environments make insect monitoring and accurate species identification important.

Onslow County

Jacksonville, Richlands, and surrounding communities should monitor imported fire ants, invasive nuisance insects, and suspicious tree pests.

Commercial transportation, landscaping operations, and moving activities are important reasons to inspect outdoor materials before transporting them to new locations.

Remember: The communities above are part of D & D Pest Control Co.’s service region. Their inclusion does not imply that every invasive species discussed in this article has been confirmed in each location.

12 Interesting Facts About Invasive Insects in North Carolina

1. Some invasive insects are beautiful. The spotted lanternfly has colorful red-and-black wings, yet it can become a serious agricultural and nuisance pest.
2. Some of the most destructive insects are extremely small. Hemlock woolly adelgids can be difficult to see without examining branches closely.
3. Fire ants have been in North Carolina for decades. They were first identified in Brunswick County in 1957.
4. Not all invasive insects attack houses. Many primarily affect agricultural crops, forests, or ornamental plants.
5. Firewood can transport invasive insects. Moving infested logs can introduce pests into locations that were previously unaffected.
6. A single vehicle can transport insects or their eggs. Spotted lanternfly egg masses can attach to trailers, equipment, and other outdoor surfaces.
7. Some insects create problems without chewing plants. Sap-feeding insects may weaken plants or produce honeydew that encourages sooty mold.
8. Invasive insects can look very different during development. Young spotted lanternflies are black or red with white spots rather than gray-winged adults.
9. Some native insects are mistaken for invasive pests. Proper identification helps protect beneficial insects from unnecessary treatment.
10. Natural enemies can influence invasive populations. Certain diseases, predators, and parasites may reduce pest abundance over time.
11. County quarantine boundaries are not the same as infestation maps. A quarantine establishes regulatory requirements for movement of certain materials.
12. Ordinary residents can help detect new invasions. Photographs and accurate sighting reports support monitoring and early-response programs.

What Should You Do If You Spot a Suspected Invasive Insect in North Carolina?

Discovering an unfamiliar insect does not automatically mean it is invasive or dangerous. Many native North Carolina insects closely resemble invasive species.

However, suspected discoveries should be documented carefully, especially when the insect is associated with damaged trees, agricultural plants, or an area where the species is not known to occur.

Step 1: Take Clear Photographs

Photograph the insect from multiple angles when possible.

Useful photographs may include:

• A clear image of the entire insect.
• A close-up of distinctive markings.
• A coin or ruler for size comparison.
• The plant, tree, or other surface where the insect was found.
• Evidence of feeding damage, egg masses, or galleries.

Step 2: Record the Location

Write down the county, city, street or general location, and date of discovery.

GPS coordinates can be helpful for sightings in wooded or remote areas.

Step 3: Avoid Moving Potentially Infested Materials

Do not transport suspected infested firewood, nursery plants, logs, landscaping equipment, or other materials until you understand whether movement restrictions apply.

Step 4: Check Reliable Identification Resources

Use university Extension publications or government identification guides rather than relying solely on social media photographs.

NC State Extension provides detailed identification information for numerous insect species found in North Carolina.

Step 5: Report Potentially Significant Discoveries

For suspected spotted lanternflies, visit:

NCDA&CS Spotted Lanternfly Reporting Portal

For suspected Asian longhorned beetles, photograph the insect and report it to:

badbug@ncagr.gov

For other potentially regulated plant pests, consult the NCDA&CS Plant Pest Alerts and the agency’s reporting instructions.

Step 6: Contact Your Local Cooperative Extension Office

If you are unsure what insect you found, your local North Carolina Cooperative Extension office can help direct you toward identification and management resources.

Use the statewide North Carolina Cooperative Extension County Center Directory to locate the office serving your county.

How North Carolina Cooperative Extension Helps Residents With Invasive Insects

North Carolina Cooperative Extension is one of the most valuable resources available to residents dealing with unfamiliar insects, plant damage, agricultural pest problems, and invasive species concerns.

NC State University and North Carolina A&T State University work with federal, state, and local partners through the Cooperative Extension system.

Cooperative Extension has county-based services throughout North Carolina.

1. Insect Identification Assistance

County Extension personnel can help residents determine what information is needed to identify an insect or connect them with appropriate university specialists and diagnostic resources.

Clear photographs and information about the location and host plant can make identification easier.

2. Research-Based Pest Management Recommendations

Extension publications explain insect life cycles, damage patterns, prevention strategies, and appropriate management options.

Recommendations may include monitoring, habitat changes, exclusion, biological control, or pesticide options when justified.

3. Agricultural Pest Education

Farmers can obtain research-based information about invasive insects affecting crops, including soybeans, fruits, vegetables, and nursery plants.

4. Forestry and Landscape Pest Guidance

Property owners concerned about declining ash trees, hemlocks, or ornamental plants can seek guidance about insect identification and appropriate next steps.

5. Community Education

Extension offices provide educational materials and may offer workshops, demonstrations, publications, and other outreach related to insects and plant health.

6. Connections to State Reporting Programs

Extension personnel can help residents identify the appropriate state or university resource for reporting a suspicious invasive insect.

Cooperative Extension does not replace the regulatory authority of NCDA&CS, and not every county office performs every type of diagnostic service. Contact the office first to learn what assistance is available.

Find Your Local Cooperative Extension Office in Eastern North Carolina

The following links lead to the official NC State Cooperative Extension websites serving counties in D & D Pest Control Co.’s primary service region.

• Lenoir County: Lenoir County Cooperative Extension
• Pitt County: Pitt County Cooperative Extension
• Wayne County: Wayne County Cooperative Extension
• Greene County: Greene County Cooperative Extension
• Jones County: Jones County Cooperative Extension
• Craven County: Craven County Cooperative Extension
• Onslow County: Onslow County Cooperative Extension
• Carteret County: Carteret County Cooperative Extension
• Duplin County: Duplin County Cooperative Extension

For other locations, visit the Official North Carolina Cooperative Extension County Directory.

How to Help Prevent the Spread of Invasive Insects

Preventing the movement of invasive insects is often easier and less expensive than managing established infestations.

Inspect Vehicles and Outdoor Equipment

Before leaving an area known to have spotted lanternflies or spongy moths, inspect trailers, recreational vehicles, landscaping equipment, outdoor furniture, and other exposed surfaces.

Buy Firewood Near Where You Will Burn It

Transporting firewood over long distances can move wood-boring insects and other invasive forest pests.

Purchasing firewood locally helps reduce opportunities for accidental introductions.

Inspect Nursery Plants

Examine purchased plants for unusual insects, eggs, scale coverings, and feeding damage.

Commercial nurseries and businesses moving regulated articles should follow applicable inspection and quarantine requirements.

Seal Exterior Openings Around Buildings

Gaps around windows, doors, siding, soffits, utility penetrations, and other exterior features can provide entry points for seasonal nuisance insects.

Weatherstripping, screening, caulking, and structural maintenance can help reduce indoor invasions.

Maintain Healthy Landscaping

Monitor ornamental plants and trees for early signs of damage.

Correcting irrigation problems, reducing unnecessary plant stress, and following sound landscape maintenance practices can help maintain plant health.

Avoid Unnecessary Pesticide Applications

Not every unfamiliar insect requires an insecticide treatment.

Incorrect identification or unnecessary broad-spectrum spraying may harm beneficial insects without addressing the actual problem.

Always follow the pesticide label and applicable regulations. Contact Cooperative Extension or a qualified professional when the correct approach is uncertain.

When Should You Contact a Professional Pest Control Company?

Some invasive insects are primarily agricultural or forestry concerns and require guidance from government agencies, university specialists, or certified arborists.

Others, including imported fire ants and certain nuisance insects, can create pest management problems around residential and commercial structures.

Professional assistance may be appropriate when:

• Imported fire ant colonies threaten lawns, play areas, or frequently used outdoor spaces.
• Large numbers of nuisance insects repeatedly enter a home or commercial building.
• Insect identification is uncertain and treatment decisions depend on the correct species.
• Entry points or property conditions contribute to recurring infestations.
• A pest problem requires a coordinated inspection and treatment plan.

D & D Pest Control Co. provides professional pest control and termite services in Eastern North Carolina, including Kinston, Greenville, Goldsboro, Jacksonville, New Bern, Snow Hill, La Grange, and surrounding communities.

Our services include residential and commercial pest inspections, general pest control, ant management, and other structural pest management solutions.

Learn more about our professional ant control services.

Important: D & D Pest Control Co. is a structural pest control provider. State-regulated invasive insect eradication, agricultural pest management, and specialized forestry treatments may fall outside the scope of ordinary structural pest control services.

If a suspected regulated invasive species is discovered, appropriate identification and reporting should come before choosing a treatment program.

Frequently Asked Questions About Invasive Insects in North Carolina

1. What are the most concerning invasive insects in North Carolina?

Important invasive insects affecting North Carolina include spotted lanternflies, emerald ash borers, spongy moths, imported fire ants, brown marmorated stink bugs, kudzu bugs, hemlock woolly adelgids, and crape myrtle bark scales. Their importance varies depending on whether they threaten agricultural crops, forests, ornamental plants, or residential properties. The Asian longhorned beetle is another important species to monitor, although it has not been confirmed in North Carolina.

2. Which North Carolina counties have confirmed spotted lanternfly populations?

As of the NCDA&CS announcement on February 10, 2026, established spotted lanternfly populations were confirmed in Forsyth, Guilford, Rockingham, Caldwell, Davidson, Rowan, and Caswell counties. Individual insects may be reported outside established infestation areas. A single sighting does not necessarily indicate that the species has formed a breeding population in that county.

3. Are spotted lanternflies dangerous to humans or pets?

Spotted lanternflies are primarily plant-feeding insects rather than biting or stinging pests. Their principal concerns involve agricultural and ornamental plant damage, honeydew accumulation, sooty mold, and nuisance populations. If large numbers occur around a property, identify the insects and consult Extension or appropriate pest management professionals before choosing a treatment method.

4. Are imported fire ants invasive insects?

Yes. Imported fire ants are nonnative invasive insects that have become established across much of North Carolina. They can create problems in lawns, parks, agricultural settings, and other outdoor environments. Their painful stings make them particularly concerning around children, pets, and outdoor work areas. Professional management may help reduce fire ant pressure on qualifying properties.

5. Does finding one invasive insect mean my property is infested?

No. A single insect may have arrived on a vehicle, plant shipment, piece of equipment, or another transported object. Some insects are capable of flying considerable distances. An established infestation usually requires evidence of a reproducing population or additional findings. If you discover a species of regulatory concern, photograph it, record the location, and follow the appropriate state reporting instructions.

6. Can invasive insects spread through firewood?

Yes. Certain insects and life stages can be moved in or on firewood. Emerald ash borers and other wood-associated pests are important examples. Spongy moth and spotted lanternfly egg masses can also attach to transported materials. Buying firewood near the location where it will be burned is an important prevention practice.

7. Who should I contact if I find an unusual insect in North Carolina?

Begin with your local North Carolina Cooperative Extension county center if you need identification guidance. For suspected spotted lanternflies, use the NCDA&CS spotted lanternfly reporting portal. Suspected Asian longhorned beetles should be reported to NCDA&CS. Photos, a location, the discovery date, and information about the host plant are helpful when reporting.

8. Does North Carolina Cooperative Extension provide free insect identification?

Cooperative Extension provides public education and guidance on insect identification, but specific diagnostic services, availability, specimen requirements, and possible fees can vary. Some cases may require assistance from university diagnostic laboratories or specialized entomologists. Contact your county Extension office before bringing in or mailing a specimen.

9. Can invasive insects damage homes?

Some invasive insects enter buildings and become nuisance pests, while others primarily attack trees or plants around a structure. Imported fire ants can create problems in lawns and sometimes around equipment. Kudzu bugs and brown marmorated stink bugs may gather around buildings or enter sheltered spaces. Proper identification helps determine whether structural treatment, exclusion, or landscape management is appropriate.

10. Are invasive insects becoming more common in Eastern North Carolina?

Several invasive insects are already established in Eastern North Carolina, including imported fire ants and kudzu bugs. Other species may spread into additional locations through natural movement or accidental transportation. However, statewide increases should not automatically be interpreted as confirmed population increases in every Eastern North Carolina county. Official detection records and local monitoring provide the most reliable information.

11. Can I spray an invasive insect with an ordinary household insecticide?

That depends on the insect, the treatment site, and the product label. A product labeled for one pest or location may not be appropriate for another. Some invasive species also fall under government monitoring or regulatory programs. Identify the insect first, review any reporting requirements, and use only products and application methods allowed by the label.

12. Can D & D Pest Control Co. help with invasive insects?

D & D Pest Control Co. can assist with structural and landscape-associated pests within its licensed service scope, including professional imported fire ant management and nuisance pest problems around buildings. For invasive forest insects, agricultural pests, or suspected regulated species, NCDA&CS, Cooperative Extension, or qualified tree-care specialists may be more appropriate resources. Call (252) 523-8255 to discuss your pest concern.

Trusted North Carolina Invasive Insect Resources

Residents who want additional information should consult the following government and university resources:

• NCDA&CS Plant Pest Alerts and Pest Watches
• North Carolina Plant Pest Quarantine Information
• Official Spotted Lanternfly Reporting
• North Carolina Cooperative Extension County Offices
• NC State Extension Research Publications
• North Carolina Forest Service – Current Forest Health Concerns

Protecting North Carolina From Invasive Insects Starts With Awareness

Invasive insects are an ongoing concern for North Carolina’s forests, agricultural economy, residential landscapes, and commercial properties.

Some species have already become widespread. Others remain limited to specific counties, and certain high-priority insects have not yet been confirmed in the state.

Learning to recognize these insects, avoiding accidental transportation, and reporting unusual discoveries can help support North Carolina’s monitoring and management efforts.

For suspected regulated invasive species, begin with the North Carolina Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services or your local Cooperative Extension office.

Need Professional Pest Control in Eastern North Carolina?

If imported fire ants, nuisance insects, or other structural pests are causing problems around your home, rental property, or commercial building, D & D Pest Control Co. can help you evaluate appropriate pest management options.

We provide professional pest control and termite services throughout Kinston, Greenville, Goldsboro, Jacksonville, New Bern, Snow Hill, La Grange, and surrounding Eastern North Carolina communities.

D & D Pest Control Co.
Serving Eastern North Carolina Since 1994
North Carolina Structural Pest Control License #1274 PW
Phone: (252) 523-8255
Website: www.ddpestcontrol.com

Contact D & D Pest Control Co. to Request Pest Control Service

Editorial note: Invasive insect distribution, quarantine boundaries, and management recommendations may change. The February 2026 NCDA&CS announcements and cited NC State Extension publications were used as the basis for the distribution information presented in this article. Always verify current state guidance before transporting regulated materials or implementing a treatment program.