Get to know the Two-Lined Spittlebug
August 2021—We have been collaborating with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service to increase awareness about a threat to Hawai‘i’s ranching communities and pasture lands: The Two-Lined Spittlebug (TLSB). This invasive insect has progressively destroyed pasture grasses that cattle feed on, with some areas seeing complete loss of grasses within one year. To date, TLSB has only been found on West Hawai‘i Island, but its potential to spread could devastate ranching communities across the islands. We can all help protect ‘āina and a vital part of our local food system by knowing how to identify, report, and take precautions not to transport TLSB. Learn more at TLSBHawaii.com and check out this short informational video and documentary.