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Trained Dogs Achieve 82% Success in Lanternfly Detection

7/22/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Trained dogs are stepping up to the challenge against the invasive spotted lanternfly, first spotted in Pennsylvania in 2014. In a remarkable citizen science initiative at Virginia Tech, ordinary dog owners taught their pets to detect egg masses, boasting an impressive 82% success rate. This effort is crucial in safeguarding agriculture across 18 states from this destructive pest.

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Story summary

Trained dogs are stepping up to the challenge against the invasive spotted lanternfly, first spotted in Pennsylvania in 2014. In a remarkable citizen science initiative at Virginia Tech, ordinary dog owners taught their pets to detect egg masses, boasting an impressive 82% success rate. This effort is crucial in safeguarding agriculture across 18 states from this destructive pest.