A Kansas 4-H entomology member submitted his insect box to State Fair with unexpected results, according to The Hutchinson News in an article by John Green on Sept. 12, 2021 titled, “State Fair entry triggers a federal investigation into how an invasive species made its way to Kansas.”
What was the excitement all about? An invasive moth species called the spotted lanternfly was among the specimens.
The spotted lanternfly is known to exist in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Experts were surprised to find one had made its way to Kansas. A federal investigation is underway to determine how the insect arrived in Kansas and whether it is a singular incident or a more widespread problem.

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