Invasive Insects
Invasive insects are pests that are more than a nuisance, they have a negative ecological or economic impact. They vary from agricultural pests such as Swede midge, to insects that can harm urban and natural forests such as the emerald ash borer or the spotted lanternfly.
Control methods vary, but prevention is key to slowing their spread. Many invasive insects are spread by human activity, such as moving plants or firewood.
Unregulated Invasive Species of Concern in Illinois include the following insects: Emerald ash borer, soybean aphid, Asian longhorned beetle, Gypsy moth.
Connect with your local Extension experts
Extension experts can help you identify species and make a plan of action for control. We have offices in every county.
Become a Master Naturalist
You can make a difference. Become an environmental steward by joining your local Master Naturalist program. share natural resource information with others in their communities and to assist with environmental conservation and restoration activities.
Learn more about Insects
Interested in learning more about our local insect population? Check out our helpful website where you can learn all about a key player in our environment.We have included many common and problematic invasive insect species for Illinois environmental,
agricultural, and horticultural concern on this website. It is not a comprehensive list.