These Dogs Can Sniff Out Invasive Species before It’s Too Late

image via New Scientist

March 14, 2025, 1:00 PM

• •Dogs have been trained to find spotted lanternfly eggs, which can be difficult for humans to see.
• •Dogs are more effective at finding spotted lanternfly eggs in forested areas than humans.
• •Dogs could be used to detect other invasive species, such as mussels, beetles, fish and mammals.

Dogs are being trained to sniff out invasive species like spotted lanternflies. The insects are native to Asia and were first spotted in the U.S. in 2014. They can severely damage grapevines and other crops. Dogs are especially good at finding spotted lanternfly egg masses, which are difficult for humans to see.

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