Invasive species are a growing concern worldwide, disrupting ecosystems, economies, and biodiversity. Yet, many people still have questions about what makes a species invasive, why they’re harmful, and how they spread. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most common questions surrounding invasive species, shedding light on the challenges they present and what can be done to protect our environment.
What is an invasive species, and how do they spread?
An invasive species is any group of animals that is living outside its native area. To be classed as invasive, they also have to cause a notable amount of harm to the local environment, the economy, and/or human health.
It is mostly human interference that causes this to happen, either conscious or unconscious. In our modern world, we transport people and goods at incredible quantities and species get caught up in the vehicles that we use. Small aquatic animals get stuck in the ballast or propellers of ships, insects hide in the wood of shipping crates, and non-native pets are released into the wild (either intentionally or unintentionally).
Why are they a problem?
They are a problem because of the negative impact they have on the world around them. In their native habitats, they may have had natural balances in place (like predators or parasites) that would’ve kept the numbers in line that may not be present in their new spaces.
Their influence reaches many different parts of life. Invasive species settle into their new environment fast and usually breed plentifully. This puts the very delicate ecosystem out of balance, leading to, usually, an overabundance of predators and fewer prey animals, meaning that native species could face endangerment. They also may damage and endanger local plant life.
These new species may also bring with them diseases that could be harmful to public health. They may bring with them dangerous bacteria that the local human population is not equipped to deal with, either in their immunity or medically.
The cost of managing these invasive species also has a huge impact on their presence. It is estimated that around £1.2 trillion is spent on their management across the world annually.
What’s the difference between non-native and invasive species?
The difference is the effect they have on the world around them. Non-native species are able to be introduced into a new environment and integrate into the ecosystem with little negative impact. They thrive in their new area and cause little threat to others. Invasive species, on the other hand, are introduced into an environment and are a detriment to the local area despite also thriving in them.
What invasive species exist in the UK?
There are several invasive animals in the UK, some of which you may not expect. The Grey Squirrel, for example, was introduced into Great Britain from America in 1876. They sadly carried a disease with them that killed off most of our native Red Squirrel population. Red squirrels are now only present in parts of the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Wight.
Asian hornets are another, more recent example. While they pose no more threat to humans than native hornets, they are excellent predators of honeybees and other pollinators. Researchers have concluded that an increase in flooding and rising temperatures have allowed the species to flourish. If you spot them in the UK, they must be reported immediately.
Canada Geese are also invasive to the UK. Although they have become rather commonplace in the British Isles, they were originally introduced around 300 years ago. These geese have grown in population year on year, and their effect on their local wildlife is notable. Their droppings pose a human health risk, and they regularly destroy local grasslands. Their territorial nature also prevents other waterfowl from nesting and mating.
What can we do about them?
There’s plenty we can do to help this global environmental issue, including:
Report sightings of invasive species to help conservationists
Thoroughly check shoes, vehicles, and luggage when travelling to make sure you’re not bringing any animals with you unknowingly
Volunteer with your local wildlife organisations and help with any efforts to control species populations ethically
Read up on invasive species
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