Invasive Species

The second largest cause of animal and plant extinction is caused by the introduction of foreign species into ecosystems.

Many introduced species are harmless, even beneficial to us (i.e. corn, rice, cattle, poultry).

The problem is that some species, when introduced into ecosystems, face no natural predators, competitors, or any disruptions. They can begin to crowd out native species, which causes ecological disruptions, human health problems, and in turn causes economic problems as well.

Approximately 40% of all listed endangered species in the U.S. are listed because of invasive species threats.

Examples of invasive species include the: zebra mussel, brown tree snake, and common pigeon