What
are Exotic Species?
Exotic species are non-native plants or animals that have been introduced into areas where they do not naturally occur, mostly by human actions. Species are introduced by accident (for example, in contaminated seed or as "stowaways" in ships and planes) and intentionally, often for agricultural or ornamental purposes. Exotic species can, but don't always, out compete natives by reproducing faster, competing for food and habitat more efficiently, and thriving in the absence of natural predators.
Not all introduced species become established or cause problems, but if they do, elimination is almost always impossible. Invasions of exotic species can cause devastation to the local environment and economy, as the invaders crowd out native species, reduce forage and wildlife habitat, and impact recreation and industry. It is important to know that not all exotic species are invasive. Some exotics are beneficial, such as the honeybees that pollinate our orchards, while others can be neutral, such as tulips that only grow where they are planted. Exotic species that occur in highly disturbed habitats are not considered invaders, while the ones that are capable of spreading into natural areas are labeled invasive.