Species by Vegetation Type | Taxonomic Master List
Aquatic Insects | Reptiles and Amphibians | Bats of Beaver Creek | Birds of Beaver Creek
Invasive Species
Invasive species are also referred to as exotic species, non-native species, nonindigenous species, or introduced species. Whatever the name, they comprise plants and animals that have been introduced to an area that is outside their normal habitat range, often originating in foreign countries. They can be introduced to an area either intentionally or unintentionally. Once they are introduced they literally take over and push other species out, sometimes resulting in the complete removal of native species from an area.
Invasive plants can negatively affect soil productivity, limit plant diversity, and reduce the acreage of natural grazing lands. Invasive animals can carry and spread diseases for which native animals have no resistance. Invasive species are better able to compete with native species for food, water, and space. In sum total, invasive species not only disrupt habitats and populations, but they can potentially disrupt the health of an entire ecosystem. The links below are to a catalog of invasive plant and animal species found within the Beaver Creek watershed.