ROMULUS, Mich. — A recent moth interception by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agriculture specialists at Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) is now considered to be the first encounter of the species since 1912.
The initial encounter was incidental to a September 2021 inspection of an arriving passenger flight from the Philippines. Agriculture specialists discovered seeds in the personal baggage of a passenger who claimed the pods were for medicinal tea. Upon closer inspection, apparent insect exit holes were discovered in the seed pods that were ultimately intercepted by CBP.
Moth larvae and pupae were collected for further analysis, and while in quarantine, several of the pupae hatched to reveal “very flashy” moths with raised patches of black setae (bristles). Physical characteristics indicated the moths to be members of family Pyralidae, however genus or species were not able to be determined by agriculture specialist and specimens were submitted to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) for further identification.
A USDA Smithsonian Institution entomologist later confirmed with CBP this was a first encounter of this species of moth since it was first described in 1912. This was also the first time that a larvae or pupae associated with this species has been collected.
Agriculture specialists play a vital role at our nation’s ports of entry by preventing the introduction of harmful exotic plant pests and foreign animal diseases into the United States,” said Port Director Robert Larkin. “This discovery is a testament to their important mission of identifying foreign pests and protecting America’s natural resources.”
Each year, CBP agriculture specialists intercept tens of thousands of “actionable pests” – those identified through scientific risk assessment and study as being dangerous to the health and safety of U.S. agricultural resources. All travelers entering the United States are required to declare meats, fruits, vegetables, plants, seeds, soil, animals, as well as plant and animal products (including soup or soup products) they may be carrying. The declaration must cover all items carried in checked baggage, carry-on luggage, or in a vehicle.
Upon examination of plants, animal products, and associated items, CBP agriculture specialists at the ports of will determine if these items meet the entry requirements of the United States. Failure to declare agricultural items can result in penalties to travelers who fail to do so. CBP.gov to learn more about the import role CBP agriculture specialists play in Protecting Agriculture.