While you may think that you have a good understanding of the diverse array of animals inhabiting this country, there is an intriguing twist—some of them are invasive. Some non-native animals pose a significant threat to their surrounding environment. Prepare to gain a deeper understanding of these animals in the Americas you didn’t know were invasive species—animals that have decided to make these continents their homes.
European Starlings
One invasive species that has become a cause for concern in North America is the European starling. One person intentionally introduced these birds to Central Park, New York City, in 1890 to bring every bird together that Shakespeare mentioned in his plays. However, these birds quickly spread across the entire country and now compete with native birds for resources. Additionally, their large flocks can pose a risk to planes, potentially causing damage to engines.
Burmese Python
Did you know that the Florida Everglades is currently overrun by Burmese pythons? One of the major things you didn’t know about pythons is that they are an invasive species that continue to cause major ecological damage. These colossal snakes initially came to Florida as pets. Unfortunately, when some grew too large, a few owners decided to release their pets into the wild. Now, they are wreaking havoc in the ecosystem by preying on native species such as rabbits, raccoons, and even alligators. With no natural predators and an ability to reproduce rapidly, these pythons pose a grave threat to the delicate balance of the Everglades ecosystem.
Zebra Mussels
The zebra mussel is a small freshwater mollusk, native to Eastern Europe, that has found its way to the Americas through the ballast water of ships. With their ability to reproduce rapidly and adhere to surfaces, they have become a major problem for power plants, water treatment facilities, and boats. Their shells can clog pipes and filters, leading to exorbitant maintenance costs. Zebra mussels are an invasive species you’ll have a hard time getting rid of.
Common Carp
Did you know that the common carp, a popular fish used for both food and recreational fishing, is actually an invasive species in the Americas? These fish came to the Americas from Asia in the 1800s and have since spread. Known for uprooting aquatic plants, they have a significant impact on other species residing in the water. Additionally, their activities stir up sediment, causing damage to natural habitats.
Nutria, Nutria, Nutria
While this animal isn’t invasive in South America, it is invasive in North America. The nutria is a large rodent native to South America, and it has become an invasive species in the US state of Louisiana. People brought them to the US in the early 1900s for their fur, but these animals escaped and rapidly multiplied. By consuming large quantities of vegetation, they contribute to soil erosion and damage to wetlands. Additionally, they carry diseases that they can transmit to other animals and even humans.
This list of animals in the Americas you didn’t know were invasive species only scratches the surface of invasive species here. There are countless others threatening the environment, economy, and public health of the areas they invade. The next time you stumble upon an animal or plant that appears out of place, remember that it could potentially be an invasive species.
