Below I have some of the most common questions I see when it comes to Invasive Species. This is a very important topic in general, but especially when it comes to conservation.

What are invasive species? Invasive species are species that do not belong in the ecosystem and are causing harm to ecosystem. They disrupt the harmony of the ecosystem and this can lead to devastating consequences.

What are some good examples of invasive species? One excellent example is the Burmese pythons in the everglades. These Burmese pythons are eating native animal species and causing population declines in these native species. The python’s diet includes threatened and endangered species such as the Woodstork and the Key Largo Woodrat. Without continuing to control the python population, these two endangered species would probably go extinct.

Another good example is Cuban Tree Frogs in Florida. These tree frogs are voracious eaters and will eat pretty much anything that can fit into their mouths. They are eating the small native frog, toad, and lizard species. This is resulting in a decline of these native species populations, but has not yet caused any of these species to be endangered, yet. Without any kind of control to this invasive species, the small native frog, toad, and lizard species would likely become endangered.

How do invasive species even get into the ecosystem? Many invasive species are the result of human activities. This can include dumping unwanted bait, dumping unwanted pets, and attachment to watercraft, among others. These are often done unintentionally, but this why education is so important, so that we can prevent invasive species in the ecosystem.

Why are invasive species such a big deal? Like previously mentioned, they cause harm to the ecosystem. Since they can cause so much harm, they can be responsible for population declines, which can lead to species becoming endangered, and even extinction.

Why are invasive species populations so difficult to control? Invasive species usually reproduce very quickly, producing large quantities of offspring. Additionally, invasive species often do not have many (if any) predators in the ecosystem, allowing their populations to soar.

What can we do about it?

Here are some of the ways that you can help control invasive species populations:

1. Educate yourself on invasive species in your area and then learn what you need to do to prevent the spread of invasive species. This can often be found on your state parks and wildlife site. For example, the zebra mussel & quagga mussel are invasive in Colorado. According to The Colorado Parks and Wildlife Site, they recommend you clean your gear (paddle boards, kayaks, canoes, inflatable watercraft) to help prevent the spread of this invasive species.
2. Don’t release, pets, plants, or fish into the wild.
3. Report a sighting of an invasive species to your local state parks and wildlife. Usually you can report a sighting on their website.
4. Properly dispose of unused bait. Again, you can find more information of specific information for your location on the state parks and wildlife website.

Let me know in the comments, where you live and what species are invasive in your area.