Returning holiday makers asked to check for stowaways

Friday, 12 July 2024 06:30

The Federal Agricultural Office is calling on holiday makers to check their baggage when they return home for any signs of the Japanese beetle.

Experts say it’s an invasive pest that can cause serious damage to crops – especially soft fruits.

It was first spotted in Ticino in 2017 – and only a few months later in Zurich.

It’s thought it can sneak onboard cars and so travel large distances.

The Confederation is asking people to check their bags for any stowaways, especially from Italy.

The Japanese beetle has a metallic green body.

More from Bitesize News

Hotter today than the weekend

The heatwave is set to intensify today, with temperatures expected to climb even higher than over the weekend.
Heat melting the roads

Traffic congestion on the autoroutes has reached a new record.
Govt wants war drones and fighting robots

The military is set for a major overhaul, with plans to create a dedicated drone and robotics battalion by 2028.
Iranian talks cause Kloten shut down

Preparations for expected U.S.-Iran talks at the Bürgenstock have caused major disruption at Zurich' Kloten Airport. An urgently introduced no-fly zone around the summit venue is being linked to a technical malfunction that affected radar displays at air traffic control provider Skyguide yesterday morning. The failure halted all departures from Zurich for more than an hour, disrupting dozens of flights. Take-offs resumed shortly before 8 a.m., but reduced airspace capacity meant delays continued throughout the morning as authorities worked to restore normal operations.
Congestion reaches new highs

Traffic congestion on the autoroutes has reached a new record.
Govt looks to ban Nazi symbols

The government wants to ban the public display of Nazi symbols, including swastikas, Hitler salutes and SS insignia.