Even if you’re not an entomologist, there are several red flags that should make you pause:
### 1. You’ve Never Seen It Before
If the insect looks unfamiliar — especially if you’ve lived in the area for years — that’s worth noting. Invasive species often stand out because they don’t resemble local insects.
### 2. It Appears in Large Numbers
A sudden surge of the same insect on trees, walls, or plants can signal a growing infestation.
### 3. It’s Damaging Plants or Trees
Wilting leaves, sticky residue, holes, or bark damage often point to destructive insects.
### 4. It’s Unusually Bold or Persistent
Some invasive or harmful insects show little fear of humans or return repeatedly to the same location.
### 5. Local Warnings Are Circulating
If you’ve seen recent alerts from local authorities or news outlets about a specific insect, take sightings seriously.
## Step 1: Do NOT Panic or Act Rashly
The first and most important step is to **stay calm**.
Many people instinctively squash insects on sight, spray chemicals, or attempt removal without understanding what they’re dealing with. In some cases, this can actually make the situation worse — spreading eggs, releasing toxins, or increasing risk of bites or stings.
Unless you are in immediate danger, **pause and assess**.
## Step 2: Observe Carefully (Without Touching)
Before doing anything else, take a moment to observe the insect:
* Size and shape
* Color patterns
* Wings or no wings
* Where it is located (tree, wall, ground, indoors)
* Behavior (flying, crawling, feeding)
If possible, **take a clear photo or short video** from a safe distance. Visual evidence is incredibly helpful for identification and reporting.
Avoid touching the insect directly with your hands. Some insects can:
* Bite or sting
* Carry pathogens
* Cause skin irritation
* Drop eggs when disturbed
## Step 3: Keep Your Distance and Protect Others
If the insect appears potentially harmful:
* Keep children and pets away
* Avoid tracking it into other areas
* Close nearby doors or windows if it’s indoors
* Do not attempt to transport it yourself
If it’s outdoors, **do not try to relocate it** unless instructed by authorities. Moving an invasive insect can unintentionally help it spread.
## Step 4: Identify the Insect Using Reliable Sources
Accurate identification is key.
Use:
* Official government or agricultural websites
* University extension services
* Local environmental agency resources
* Reputable insect identification apps or databases
Avoid relying solely on social media speculation, which often spreads misinformation.
If the insect matches descriptions of a **reported invasive or dangerous species**, proceed immediately to the next step.
