Travelers unintentionally may carry invasive species, whether they are traveling by air or by land. Some of these species specifically are forbidden to be imported or transported into the United States, under the federal Lacey Act. Species that may be introduced by this pathway include giant hogweedgypsy mothMediterranean white snailnorthern snakehead fish, and zebra or quagga mussels.

If you’re a traveler, you can help prevent the spread of invasive species by cleaning your gear or vehicle before moving to a new place.

For more information, visit our Don’t Pack a Pest page.