AGGRESSIVE VS INVASIVE
SO WHAT IS AN INVASIVE PEST ANYWAY?
Invasive insects, plants, and animals are one of the greatest threats to our native plant and wildlife populations in the United States. There is a misconception that any living thing that spreads or multiplies rapidly is an invasive species, but this is not entirely true. The term "invasive" is used to describe insects, plants, and animals that have been introduced to a new environment and outcompete native species for resources. Because they have no natural enemies in their new environment to keep their population in check, invasive species are typically able spread rampantly. On the other hand, native insects, plants, and animals that are able to spread or multiply rapidly are considered aggressive spreaders, not invasive species.
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A Beautiful Disaster: The Spotted LanternflyAt first glance, the spotted lanternfly is quite exquisite, but its looks are deceiving. It is one of the most aggressive pests in the Mid-Atlantic region and pose a severe threat to our forests and agricultural industry. Read this blog to learn about how the spotted lanternfly got here, what's being done to stop it from spreading, and what we all can do to keep it out of the Carolinas. |
Mission StatementWe are committed to providing awareness and educational resources to the public in an effort to combat invasive pests that threaten North Carolina's native plants, animals, and insects. |
FIRST LET'SRead our blog posts to learn about the invasive species that are in (or that threaten) North Carolina. Look at the photos and play our Invasive v. Native game to learn how to identify many invasive species. You can also "like" us on Facebook for more educational materials!
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IT'S UP TO USThere are many ways you can help prevent the spread of invasive species. Volunteer at your local park to remove invasive species, grow native plants in your yard to invite in native wildlife, check your clothes and vehicles for hitchhiking invasive plants after leaving a new area, and buy local firewood to prevent the spread of wood-boring insects. Check out our "Get Involved" page for a list of citizen science projects that you can work on.
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