Invasive Terrestrial Animals
Invasive terrestrial vertebrate species can cause substantial economic and ecological damage, and some displace or prey upon native species, thus reducing biological diversity. Some species are native to other parts of North America, but have expanded their range or been deliberately introduced to new ecosystems. Examples include brown-headed cowbirds, barred owls, and American bullfrogs. Other threats include European wild pigs, burros, nutria, rock doves, eastern fox squirrels, red foxes, and European starlings. At present, few studies in the Forest Service target terrestrial vertebrate invaders. The Rocky Mountain Research Station has developed a strategy for studying invasive terrestrial animals.
Terrestrial Animals Impacted by Invasive Species
The survival of some native terrestrial animals is threatened by invasive species, through predation, parasitism or competition for habitat. Several Research Stations are studying the effects of invasive plant and invertebrate species on terrestrial vertebrates. For example, changes in structure and composition of plant communities brought about by invasive plants can reduce availability of high quality habitats and food for animals.
Selected Research
Select a link below to learn more about our research on these invasive or threatened animals.
| Invasive | Threatened |
|---|---|
Related Links
Aquatic Sepcies, National Invasive Species Information Center
What are Aquatic Invasive Species?, US Fish and Wildlife Service
Invasive Species Committee, Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies