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

Heat closes Geneva paddling pools

Eight of Geneva's eleven paddling pools are now closed as the city battles bacterial contamination during the heatwave.
Soaring temps hit hospitals

Hospital rooms at the Geneva University Hospital are hitting 34 degrees - with temperatures in the cafeteria up at 40.
Crans-Montana looks to summer season after fire tragedy

Crans-Montana is hoping for a broadly stable summer, more than six months after the New Year fire at the Constellation bar.
MétéoSuisse warns of budget cuts

The federal weather service is warning that government budget cuts risk making our forecasts less accurate.
Rents rise Geneva - more than Zurich

Rents in Geneva have risen 5.3% over the past year, putting the canton well above the national average of 2.5%, according to the property platform Homegate.
Better passenger rights coming

We’re going to get stronger air passenger rights, after the European Parliament voted for a major tightening of the rules.