Holidaymakers warned not to bring home “destructive” beetle

The Dutch food safety authority, NVWA, has warned returning holidaymakers and transport companies to be on the lookout for and report any Japanese beetles they may encounter after one was discovered in a freight shipment from Italy. The insect was found dead in a container that had traveled from a region in Italy where such beetles are native.

While no live beetles were found in the container, the NVWA has urged people to remain vigilant and report any specimens they discover. Trading and logistics companies are specifically asked to remain alert for beetles that may be inadvertently transported in their goods or vehicles. Dutch residents should avoid leaving vehicle doors and windows open unnecessarily and should inspect goods and packing before departing if possible.

These beetles, not native to the Netherlands, can be destructive because they feed on a wide variety of plants, with both adult beetles and larvae causing damage. The Dutch authorities have published guidance on identifying Japanese beetles from similar native species.