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Invasive Plants

Invasive Species What’s the difference between a “weed” and an “invasive plant”? A weed is simply a plant growing in a place where it’s not wanted. It might be a problem locally, but it generally doesn’t spread to become a large-scale problem in natural areas.

An invasive plant is a non-native plant with very high reproductive potential and the ability to establish across long distances (for example, it might produce seeds that can spread by wind or by animals). An invasive plant can become established in natural areas, and disrupt natural communities by outcompeting native plants.

An invasive species grows/reproduces and spreads rapidly, establishes over large areas, and persists. Species that become invasive succeed due to favorable environmental conditions and lack of natural predators, competitors and diseases that normally regulate their populations.

This includes a wide variety of plants, insects and animals from exotic places. As invasive species spread and take over ecosystems, they decrease biodiversity by threatening the survival of native plants and animals. In fact, invasive species are a significant threat to almost half of the native U.S. species currently listed as federally endangered.

In addition to negatively impacting ecosystems, invasive species are also costly. It is very expensive to prevent, monitor and control the spread of invasives, not to mention the damage to crops, fisheries, forests, and other resources. Invasives cost the US $137 billion annually. Some of the most harmful species cost in excess of $100 million annually.

Sometimes you will see invasive species referred to as exotic, alien, or non-indigenous species. The problem with these names is that they only refer to the non-native part of the definition above. Many exotic or alien species do not cause harm to our economy, our environment, or our health. In fact, the vast majority of "introduced" species do not survive and only about 15% of those that do go on to become "invasive" or harmful.

More info about Invasive Plants

For more information in invasives check out the following websites:
Texas Parks and Wildlife Exotic and Invasive Species
Texas Invasives from the Texas Invasive Plant & Pest Council.
USDA National Invasive Species Information Center
Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health
Early Detection and Distribution Mapping System
Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States

Learn more about Invasive Species

Native Plants - A Quick Reference Guide

By: U.S. Bureau of Land Management

Learn more about native plants, get involved, and spread the word!

Best Management Practices for Post-Fire Woody Brush Control in the Lost Pines Region of Texas

By: Texas A&M Forest Service

The purpose of this document is to outline two methods of applying herbicide to reduce and control the competition created from re-sprouting hardwood species (primarily oak, and yaupon holly). The goal is to allow the native loblolly pine to again become a significant component of the next forest woodland.

Combating Invasive Species

By: Western Governors’ Association

Policy Resolution 13-02: Western Governors support coordinated, prevention efforts of early detection and rapid response with multistate management and eradication actions to limit or eliminate introductions and improve control of invasive species expansion. Programs for the control and/or eradication of invasive species must result in more on-the-ground prevention, management and eradication.

NBCI’s Bobwhite Almanac, State of the Bobwhite 2012

By: D.F. McKenzie, T.V. Dailey, K.M. Puckett and J. G. Doty

This 2nd edition of the NBCI’s annual “State of the Bobwhite” report provides the most comprehensive assessment ever compiled on the current state of bobwhite conservation in the US.

Ecology and Management of Bark Beetles (Coleoptera - Curculionidae - Scolytinae) in Southern Pine Forests

By: T. D. Schowalter

ABSTRACT Barkbeetles (Coleoptera:Curculionidae:Scolytinae) have been an important historic and current factor affecting pine forest production in the southern United States. Although tree mortality to bark beetles often detracts from forest management goals, the natural role of barkbeetles is canopy opening, thinning, and diversification of stand structure and composition, effects that contribute to some ecosystem services in forests managed for multiple uses. Strategies to prevent barkbeetle outbreaks exploit their sensitivity to host tree spacing and reliance on pheromones to attract sufficient numbers to overwhelm tree defenses. Tree species selection at planting or through selective thinning can favor pine species that are more tolerant of site conditions and resistant to bark beetles. Precommercial or commercial thinning improves tree condition and creates barriers to beetle population growth and spread. Remedial options include salvage harvest, pheromones for trap-out or disruption of host location, and white paint to disrupt the dark silhouette of the tree bole. Given the labor costs and trade-offs among tactics and the marginal profitability of fiber and timber production, harvest in advance of,or salvage harvest after, barkbeetle attack often is the favored management strategy. However, this strategy is not as appropriate in public forests managed for values provided by older, more vulnerable trees. High-value sites for cultural or endangered species protection may require use of more expensive management options.

What’s a quail worth?

By: Steve Byrns

What’s a quail worth? The short answer — as it relates to a wild Texas quail — is $253 each, according to a recently completed survey of Texas quail hunters.

ExFor The Exotic Forest Pest Information System for North America Participant’s Guidelines

By: Marla Downing and Joseph G. O’Brien

ExFor is an Internet-accessible database containing information on forest pests that can be used by workers worldwide. This document describes the guidelines to be followed by contributors to the ExFor database in evaluating exotic forest pests and in submitting background information to the database.

Regulatory and forest protection agencies, as well as researchers and field workers in forest health and related fields, will benefit from the ready availability of information on a wide variety of pests with potential to become established in North American forests. The information is presented in such a way as to be useful for many purposes. Although the emphasis in the pest risk assessment model developed for this project is on potential establishment and impact, information on pathways for introduction and means of dispersal is provided in the Pest Facts Sheets. It is anticipated that this information will prove useful for the assessment and management of introduced pests, wood products and other commodities from offshore sources.

USDA Forest Service Southern Regional Framework For Non-Native Invasive Species

By: USDA Forest Service - Region 8
The purpose of the Southern Region (R8) Non-Native Invasive Species Strategy is to provide an effective interdisciplinary framework to implement Non-Native Invasive Species (NNIS) management programs. The implementation will include R8 National Forests, State and Private Forestry, and Research and Development programs as applicable.

The goal of the R8 NNIS Program in the South is to reduce, minimize, or eliminate the potential for introduction, establishment, spread, and impact of non-native invasive species across all landscapes and ownerships. The vision for this program is to protect native ecosystems and biodiversity, as well as begin restoration of desired ecological functions or components after NNIS removal. Read More »

Uniform Minimum Protocols and Standards for Watercraft Interception Programs for Dreissenid Mussels in the Western United States

By: Bill Zook and Stephen Phillips
Read More »

Quagga-Zebra Mussel Action Plan for Western U.S. Waters

By: Western Regional Panel on Aquatic Nuisance Species
Read More »

Inspection and Cleaning Manual for Equipment and Vehicles to Prevent the Spread of Invasive Species 2012 Edition

By: Joe DiVittorio, Michael Grodowitz, Joe Snow, and Teri Manross

Procedures have been developed in this manual to address the transport of pest and invasive species through equipment movement. This manual provides uniform guidelines for inspecting and cleaning vehicles and equipment to help prevent the spread of pest and invasive species during Bureau of Reclamation activities.

How to Prevent the Spread of New Zealand Mudsnails through Field Gear

By: Oregon Sea Grant

This is a guide for field detection and for treating field gear to prevent the spread of New Zealand mudsnails. It is intended for researchers, monitoring crews, watershed survey groups, and anyone else who travels frequently between aquatic or riparian locations.

A LANDOWNER'S GUIDE FOR WILD PIG MANAGEMENT - PRACTICAL METHODS FOR WILD PIG CONTROL

By: Bill Hamrick, Mark Smith, Chris Jaworowski, & Bronson Strickland
Summarizes biology of wild pigs, history of introduction and range of occurence within the U.S., and ecological and economic impacts, with suggestions for management strategies. Read More »

2008 - 2012 National Invasive Species Management Plan

By: National Invasive Species Council
Invasive Species introduced into the United States from around the globe are affecting plant and animal communities on our farms, ranches and coasts; and in our parks, waters, forests, and backyards. As global climate patterns shift, the distribution of species will change, and so will the susceptibility of particular habitats to the impacts of new species introductions. Human activity such as trade, travel and tourism have all increased substantially, increasing the speed and volume of species movement to unprecedented levels. Invasive species are often unintended hitchhikers on cargo and other trade conveyances. Still more species are deliberately introduced as pets, ornamental plants, crops, food, or for recreation, pest control or other purposes. Most nonnative species, including most of our sources of food and fiber, are not harmful; and many are highly beneficial. A small percentage of nonnative species cause great harm to the environment, the economy or human health. Nonnative species that cause harm are collectively known as invasive species. Read More »

Non-native Invasive Species Best Management Practices

By: USDA - Forest Service

Non-native plants, animals, and microorganisms found outside of their natural range can become invasive. While many of these are harmless because they do not reproduce or spread in their new surroundings, other non-native species (NNIS) are considered invasive if they can cause harm to the economy, ecology or human health of the new environment. These species thrive in new areas because they establish relatively quickly, tolerate a wide range of conditions, are easily dispersed, and are no longer limited by the diseases, predators, and parasites that kept their populations in check in their native range.

Water Gardens and Introduced Species

By: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Constructing a water garden is a unique and enjoyable way to accent a property. There are many types of aquatic plants and animals commonly used in water gardens including water lettuce, cattails and koi. Many of the popular species are not native to the area or watershed in which they are being planted.

Introduced species are defined as any individual, group, subspecies or population that enters an aquatic ecosystem outside of its historical native range. These species may be plants or animals and may arrive from different countries or from different locations of the same country. Non-native species like goldfish and purple loosestrife, are now prevalent in many regions across the U.S. after first being used as ornamentals. Once established, introduced species may cause ecological and economic problems and can be difficult if not impossible to control or eradicate.

Army trained, combat tested and farmer approved feral hog control

By: Logan Hawkes

Rod Pinkston, a former U.S. Army Master Sergeant and war veteran, may well be one of the world's best and most intuitive wild hog hunters in the world.

Invasive Plant Responses to Silvicultural Practices in the South

By: C. W. Evans, D. J. Moorhead, C. T. Bargeron and G. K. Douce
Many forest managers are unknowingly introducing and spreading invasive plants on their lands through management practices they implement. These practices, ranging from traditional silvicultural management to wildlife enhancement and land-use conversion practices, all influence invasive plant growth, reproduction, and dispersal. Recognizing and predicting the response of individual species to these practices will enable managers to take steps to prevent or reduce the impact of invasive plants on their land. Many of these species eliminate all productive uses on infested sites and are very expensive to control and/or eradicate. Knowing which invasive plants are common in your region and being able to identify them aids in quickly responding to new threats. Monitoring disturbed areas and proper sanitation of equipment helps prevent new infestations. Issues such as when and how to use prescribed fire and how different invasive plants will respond can be confusing and overwhelming. This publication integrates vegetation management guidelines and control techniques with silvicultural practices, such as prescribed fire, harvest techniques, site preparation, timber stand improvement, and wildlife plantings, in a format that will help the manager understand the relationship of management practices and invasive plants.

Read More »

Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force Strategic Plan (2013 – 2017)

By: ANSTF

Aquatic nuisance species (ANS) are nonindigenous species that threaten the diversity or abundance of native species, the ecological stability of infested waters, and/or any commercial, agricultural, aquacultural, or recreational activities dependent on such waters. ANS include nonindigenous species that may occur within inland, estuarine, or marine waters and that presently or potentially threaten ecological processes or natural resources. The term ANS is often used interchangeably with aquatic invasive species, the preferred term of Federal and State managers. An aquatic invasive species is defined as a species not native to the ecosystem under consideration whereby introduction of this species does or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm or threaten human health.

Keeping the Razorbacks in the Football Stadium

By: K Gregg Elliott

Feral animals are those that have returned to an untamed state after having been domesticated. Such is the case with almost all the wild pigs in North America. Although some of the truly wild Eurasian or “Russian” boars have been brought to the U.S., they are rare, and most feral hogs descend from livestock or are a hybrid of the two species.

The Texas Wildlife Action Plan

Excerpts from the Texas Wildlife Action Plan (WAP) applicable to private landowners.

Longleaf Pine Regeneration

By: Chris Demers, Alan Long and Patrick Minogue
Provides instructions for artificial regeneration, site prep, seedings and planting to re-establish longleaf pine. The guidelines conclude, “Longleaf pine has many desirable characteristics for landowners who have multiple-use forest management objectives. On appropriate sites, and with careful attention to detail during the regeneration phase, it is possible to enjoy the versatility of this species without compromising growth rates.” Read More »

Endemic Species and Biodiversity Hotspots

According to the US Fish and Wildlife Service, endemic species are native species that are confined to a certain region or having a comparatively restricted distribution. For example, the Joshua Tree is endemic to the Mojave Desert. In other words, endemics, wherever they are located, are unique to their region. In general, the greater the isolation or specialized nature of the habitat, the more numerous the endemics. Thus, according to Britannica Encyclopedia online, species on remote oceanic islands tend to be almost 100% endemic.

Native species

Native plants help conserve water, improve water quality, and provide wildlife habitats. Related activities are being held throughout the week and at many sites around town.

Texas has many native animals and birds, as well as introduced species. More than 540 species of birds — about three fourths of all different species found in the United States — have been identified in Texas. Some 142 species of animals, including some that today are extremely rare, are found in Texas.

The types of plants found in Texas vary widely from one region to the next. This is due to the amount and frequency of rainfall, diversity of soils, and the number of frost-free days. From the forests of East Texas to the deserts of West Texas, from the grassy plains of North Texas to the semi-arid brushlands of South Texas, plant species change continuously.

More than 100 million acres of Texas are devoted to grazing, both for domestic and wild animals. This is the largest single use of land in the state. More than 80 percent of the acreage is devoted to range in the Edwards Plateau, Cross Timbers and Prairies, South Texas Plains, and Trans-Pecos Mountains and Basins.

The Houston metro region consists predominantly of Gulf Prairies and Marshes that cover approximately 10 million acres of the state. There are two subunits: (a) the marsh and salt grasses immediately at tidewater, and (b) a little farther inland, a strip of bluestems and tall grasses, with some gramas in the western part. Many of these grasses make excellent grazing.

Oaks, elm, and other hardwoods grow to some extent, especially along streams, and the area has some post oak and brushy extensions along its borders. Much of the Gulf Prairies is fertile farmland, and the area is well suited for cattle.

Principal grasses of the Gulf Prairies are tall bunchgrasses, including big bluestem, little bluestem, seacoast bluestem, indiangrass, eastern gamagrass, Texas wintergrass, switchgrass, and gulf cordgrass. Saltgrass occurs on moist saline sites.

Heavy grazing has changed the native vegetation in many cases so the predominant grasses are the less desirable broomsedge bluestem, smutgrass, threeawns, tumblegrass, and many other inferior grasses. Other plants that have invaded the productive grasslands include oak underbrush, Macartney rose, huisache, mesquite, prickly pear, ragweed, bitter sneezeweed, broomweed, and others.

Vegetation of the Gulf Marshes consists primarily of sedges, bullrush, flat-sedges, beakrush and other rushes, smooth cordgrass, marshhay cordgrass, marsh millet, and maidencane. The marshes are grazed best during winter.

Why are native plants important?
Invasive Species

Native plants form the historical basis of our landscape, provide food and habitat for animals, and serve as natural sources of food, fiber, and other products.

Native plants are acclimated to local climate conditions and soils, provide habitat for wildlife, typically require less water and maintenance once established, and do not rely on chemical fertilizers and pesticides to thrive. These homegrown plants also give us a sense of place and help maintain the region's wide variety of flora and fauna.

Texas Plant Information Database

The Texas Plant Information Database (TPID) contains comprehensive information about native and a few selected naturalized plant species that have value for erosion control and wildlife use. It provides the user an opportunity to query and select species that have application for landscape enhancement or restoration. The selection of appropriate plants is based on specific site characteristics and management objectives.

This project is still evolving.Therefore, we welcome comments and suggestions. We hope the program is user-friendly as well as applicable. Species can be added to the database and modifications of existing data can be made where needed.In case there is a plant you would like to see added to the database, please e-mail the plant name to us at the address below. If the plant meets the criteria for addition to the database, a blank form will be mailed to you to fill out and send back.

Criteria for Including Plants in the Database TPID is based upon plants that have desirable characteristics and, when planted in appropriate associations, can provide vegetated landscapes similar to those that naturally occur in Texas. These plants include trees, shrubs, vines, forbs, grasses, and marsh plants. This database contains information on specific plants (e.g. wooly croton) as well as groups of plants (e.g. Croton spp.) for which data for several plants are grouped together.

There are several ways you can search the database for native species:
Search by Common Name
Search by Scientific Name
Search by Code
Search by Ecological Region
Search by County
Search the database by Specific Location

Find a nursery that sells plants native to TexasH »

Learn more about Native Species

Native Plants - A Quick Reference Guide

By: U.S. Bureau of Land Management

Learn more about native plants, get involved, and spread the word!

The Texas Wildlife Action Plan

Excerpts from the Texas Wildlife Action Plan (WAP) applicable to private landowners.

Establishing Native Warm Season Grasses For Upland Wildlife

By: National Wild Turkey Federation

In recent years, there has been increased interest in establishing native warm season grasses (NWSG) and forbs as wildlife habitat. Commonly known as prairie or prairie grass, native grasslands and savannas, a forest/grassland complex with less than 50% tree coverage, historically dominated the landscape across much of the United States. These grasses and forbs grow during the warmer months of the year as opposed to cool season grasses such as fescue and brome.

Best Management Practices

Best Management Practices, or BMPs, are developed by experienced practitioners or management and research organizations to improve land management outcomes. Although general wildlife, habitat, or agricultural or water quality BMPs may be helpful for many species of wildlife, some species have unique requirements that are highly limiting to their populations.

A good example is the Wood Duck, a species of waterfowl that declined in the late 18th century as a result of overhunting and declines in its preferred bottomland habitat. According to the US Geological Survey, “by the beginning of the 20th century, wood ducks had virtually disappeared from much of their former range.” The Wood Duck is a cavity nester and requires mature trees and snags for nesting. As this type of habitat develops slowly and can be rare under modern forest management regimes, the specific practice of placing and maintaining wood duck boxes began in the 1930s to artificially boost populations.

Specific guidelines for the correct dimensions, construction and placement of wood duck boxes has helped make the practice widespread, playing a key part in the comeback of the Wood Duck nationwide. Again, USGS states, “The story of the Wood Duck is an example of how active wildlife management techniques can have a tremendous effect on the overall success of an individual species.”

Best Management Practice Downloads

Aquatic Weed Management Control Methods

A discussion of the main types of aquatic weeds, plus prevention; biological, chemical, and mechanical control; and integrated weed management. A list of all Southern Regional Aquaculture Center factsheets (more than 150) are available at https://srac.tamu.edu/index.cfm/event/viewAllSheets/

Ecology and Management of Bark Beetles (Coleoptera - Curculionidae - Scolytinae) in Southern Pine Forests

By: T. D. Schowalter

Managing working lands for northern bobwhite - the USDA NRCS Bobwhite Restoration Project

By: L.W.Burger Jr., and K.O. Evans, Mississippi State University (eds)
Read More »

Conservation buffers - wildlife benefits in Southeastern agricultural systems

By: L. W. Burger

Conservation buffers such as filter strips, riparian buffers, grassed waterways, and field borders are especially applicable to southeastern landscapes and have multiple environmental benefits while serving to significantly improve wildlife habitats.

Bobwhite and Upland Songbird Response to CCRP Practice CP33, Habitat Buffers for Upland Birds

By: L.W. Burger Jr. S.K. Riffell, K.O. Evans, and M.D. Smith

Summary Findings

The Habitat Buffers for Upland Birds practice (CP33) is the first Federal conservation practice to target species-specific population recovery goals of a national wildlife conservation initiative (the Northern Bobwhite Conservation Initiative).
Over 14 states, breeding bobwhite densities were 70 to 75 percent greater around CP33 buffered fields than around unbuffered crop fields.
Fall bobwhite covey densities were 50 to 110 percent greater around CP33 fields than around unbuffered crop fields, and this positive response to CP33 increased each subsequent year of the study.
Several upland songbirds (e.g., dickcissel, field sparrow) responded strongly to CP33 in the landscape.
Area-sensitive grassland birds (e.g.,grasshopper sparrow) exhibited little response to CP33 buffers.
These findings illustrate the wildlife value of field borders and other buffer practices implemented through EQIP, WHIP, and other conservation programs.

The Role of Farm Policy in Achieving Large-Scale Conservation - Bobwhite and Buffers

By: L. Wes Burger Jr., Don McKenzie, Reggie Thackston, and Stephen J. Demaso

The conservation provisions of the Farm Bill can produce more consistent positive wildlife habitat benefits when policy (program statutes, rules, practices, and practice standards) is developed in the context of explicit goals identified as part of large-scale conservation initiatives.

Ecosystem services provided by bats

By: Thomas H. Kunz, Elizabeth Braun de Torrez, Dana Bauer, Tatyana Lobova, and Theodore H. Fleming
Review of the available literature on the ecological and economic impact of ecosystem services provided by bats. Read More »

Uniform Minimum Protocols and Standards for Watercraft Interception Programs for Dreissenid Mussels in the Western United States

By: Bill Zook and Stephen Phillips
Read More »

2008 - 2012 National Invasive Species Management Plan

Non-native Invasive Species Best Management Practices

By: USDA - Forest Service

Prescribed Fire Associations

By: John R. Weir and Terrence G. Bidwell
A Prescribed Fire Association is a group of landowners and other concerned citizens that form a partnership to conduct prescribed burns. Prescribed burning is the key land management tool used to restore and maintain native plant communities to their former diversity and productivity for livestock production and wildlife habitat. Native prairies, shrublands, and forests supply the majority of livestock forage and much of the wildlife habitat in the U.S. Without fire, many native plant communities become dysfunctional and unproductive. Research has clearly shown that there is no substitute for fire.

Many forest and grassland ecosystems are fire dependent and not burning is poor land management. Why do not more people use prescribed fire to manage their land? First, fire was not part of the European culture that settled in post-Columbian America. Fire exclusion and fire suppression has been engrained in our society for years and popularized by the very successful Smokey the Bear ad campaign. The result has been a rapid decline in the quality of our natural resources, along with costing taxpayers millions of dollars each year to fight wildfires and the many other negative consequences of fuel build up. This article has been adapted from Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Association. Read More »

Reasons for Prescribed Fire in Forest Management

A summary of all the benefits of prescribed fire in southern forests.

Managing Wild Pigs, a Technical Guide

By: Ben C. West, Andrea L. Cooper, and James B. Armstrong

This 40-page document provides detailed information on the biology of wild pigs, how to recognize their presence, the type of damage they can cause to agriculture and natural areas and a wide range of management techniques, including hunting. It applies to just about anywhere in the U.S. where wild pigs are found.

Preventing Hitchhiking Nonindigenous Species in Live Shipments for Aquaculture

By: Paul W. Zajicek, Jeffrey E. Hill, Nathan Stone, Hugh Thomforde, Cortney Ohs, Diane Cooper, Gef Flimlin, Brad McLane and William D. Anderson

Gives an overview of prevention techniques for live fish, shellfish, ornamental fish and invertebrates, aquatic plants, marine shrimp and freshwater prawns. A list of all Southern Regional Aquaculture Center factsheets (more than 150) are available at https://srac.tamu.edu/index.cfm/event/viewAllSheets/

Emerging Issues Regarding Non-Native Species for Aquaculture

By: Jeffrey E. Hill
Discusses pathogens and parasites, genetic alterations, and genetically modified organisms. A list of all Southern Regional Aquaculture Center factsheets (more than 150) are available at https://srac.tamu.edu/index.cfm/event/viewAllSheets/ Read More »

Non-native Species in Aquaculture - Terminology, Potential Impacts, and the Invasion Process

By: Jeffrey E. Hill

A must-read for any responsible aquaculturist contemplating non-native species production. A list of all Southern Regional Aquaculture Center factsheets (more than 150) are available at https://srac.tamu.edu/index.cfm/event/viewAllSheets/

Improving Lesser Prairie-Chicken Habitat Through Revegetation and Rangeland Management

By: USDA - NRCS

A diversity of habitats is required throughout the lifecycle of the prairie-chicken to provide food and shelter. Planting to improve lesser prairie-chicken habitat requires not only the correct species of grasses, wildflowers, and shrubs, but, also the selections which have proven success or which are locally adapted. Proper management of lesser prairie-chicken habitat maintains plant diversity and keeps unwanted plant species from invading. Management with other uses, such as grazing, are very effective and benefit both livestock and wildlife.

Control of Bird Predation at Aquaculture Facilities

By: Gary A. Littauer, James F. Glahn, David S. Reinhold and Martin W. Brunson
Strategies and cost estimates for various forms of frightening programs and exclusion or barrier methods of control. A list of all Southern Regional Aquaculture Center factsheets (more than 150) are available at https://srac.tamu.edu/index.cfm/event/viewAllSheets/ Read More »

BMPs oriented more specifically toward farming & agriculture, wildlife habitat and energy efficiency are also available on this site.

Invasive Species news from the Houston Conservation Center

The following news articles are provided by the Google News service and do not reflect the views or imply an endorsement by the Houston Conservation Center and its affiliates. We cannot guarantee the relevance of the content of this page or any links that may be followed from the articles herein.

Invasive parasite robs fish of ability to swim, poses threat to endangered species WOAI

An invasive parasite in the San Marcos and Comal Rivers could threaten native fish, including endangered species in the area. Researchers at Texas State ...

Worm that makes fish unable to swim continues to infect San Marcos, Comal rivers KXAN.com

A new invasive parasite in the San Marcos and Comal rivers is becoming a bigger and bigger problem — it infects fish and makes them unable to swim.

Invasive parasite robs fish of ability to swim, poses potential threat to endangered species San Marcos Daily Record

Invasive Species Have Reshaped Texas. Now What? The Texas Observer

From parakeets to fire ants, nilgai to tamarisk trees, invasives have integrated into the state's ecosystems — and managing them means asking hard questions.

New study explains why monk parakeets and other parrots ended up flocking to Austin CultureMap Austin

Texas appears to be a paradise for parrots. A new study puts Texas at No. 3 among the states with the most sightings in the wild of these one-time exotic pet.

New study explains why parrots ended up flocking to Texas CultureMap Dallas

Texas appears to be a paradise for parrots. A new study puts Texas at No. 3 among the states with the most sightings in the wild of these one-time exotic pet.

Zebra mussels found in more Central Texas lakes FOX 7 Austin

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is urging boaters and paddlers expected to hit the water Memorial Day weekend and this summer to clean, drain and ...

Texas Invasive Species Workshop set April 17 at Sutton County Civic Center AgriLife Today

AgriLife Extension *Service* in Sutton and Crockett counties, will present a Texas Invasive Species Workshop April 17 at the Sutton County Civic Center.

Texas Invasive Species Program Gets New Boost from Lee and Ramona Bass Foundation UT News | The University of Texas at Austin

AUSTIN, Texas—Destructive and costly fire ants, crazy ants, moth larvae and invasive grasses can wreak havoc on Texas ecosystems, but biologists at The ...

Man caught transporting invasive stingrays, exotic fish at Texas airport Fox News

One man is in hot water after he was caught transporting several illegal fish through Texas.

Invasive mussels threaten Texas freshwater ecosystems Houston Chronicle

Few Austin-area residents, or many people in the rest of Texas for that matter, paid much attention in the summer of 2017 when state fisheries scientists ...

Nutria may look cute but are considered an invasive species Monitor

ANITA WESTERVELT | SPECIAL TO THE MONITOR. Looking much like a koala bear at first glance, these cute and cuddly looking critters might be seen along ...

Zebra mussels take over Austin waterways, new species could invade Central Texas KVUE.com

Brent Bellinger, Senior Environmental Scientist for the City of Austin, said the plan now is to control zebra mussels from spreading out of the Colorado River ...

Man caught transporting invasive stingrays at airport New York Post

One man is in hot water after he was caught transporting several illegal fish through Texas. The Kansas man has been charged for shipping two types of live...

Great Gardening - Central Texas: Chinese tallow tree threatens native species Temple Daily Telegram

Recently my husband removed a tree from behind our home while a neighbor and I cheered him on. This tree was a huge threat to our environment because it ...

Houston is full of invasive species, and humans are helping them Chron.com

Insidious species are hard at work across the Houston area, taking over natural habitats and squeezing out native plants and animals. Perhaps the worst thing ...

Stingrays, other fish found shipped to DFW Airport WFAA.com

FORT WORTH, Texas — Charges have been filed against a Kansas man for shipping a package of freshwater stingrays and Boulengerella to DFW International ...

Illegal shipment of stingrays, exotic fish found at Dallas-Fort Worth airport Atlanta Journal Constitution

Officials say a Kansas man faces charges after law enforcement personnel intercepted shipments of stingrays and exotic fish at Dallas-Fort Worth International ...

Florida residents warned parasite-carrying New Guinea flatworms are invading part of the state Fox News

If you live in Central Florida, beware: The invasive, parasite-carrying New Guinea flatworm has reportedly made its way to this part of the state.

Stingrays, Fish Found in Crate at DFW Airport NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth

Charges have been filed against a person who had freshwater stingrays and boulengerella shipped to DFW Airport in a crate, officials said. The fish were found ...

How ‘Rodents Of Unusual Size’ Took Over The Swamps — And Hearts – Of Louisiana Houston Public Media

Nutria, the beaver-like rodents with long, skinny tails, are among the most invasive species in Texas. Now, a new film called Rodents of Unusual Size details the ...

Invasive weed taking over roadsides, agricultural areas | Local News Cleburne Times-Review

From afar, the yellow clumps of blossoms appearing on Johnson County roadsides this spring might seem pleasing to the eye.But a closer look reveals the ...

In the Growing Battle Against Invasive Plants, Texas Lags Behind Other States KUT

Doctor Hans Landel blows minds for a living. He travels the state giving workshops on invasive plants. But he starts each one with a warning. “If you're used to ...

Strange, invasive beetle species seized by U.S. Customs officials in Houston Houston Chronicle

It's the job of U.S. Customs and Border Protection's agriculture specialists to make sure harmful organic items don't come into the country. Although it might seem ...

Invasion of big, voracious lizards threatens U.S. South: study Reuters

AUSTIN, Texas (Reuters) - A group of South American lizards that can grow up to four feet long (1.2 meters) has established a home in the Florida wild after ...

Feral swine, "the worst invasive species we’ll ever see" Marketplace APM

They're called feral swine, wild boars, feral hogs and wild pigs. Farmers refer to them as the “rototillers” of nature. Found in at least 35 states with a population of ...

Denton Considers Options to Prepare for Emerald Ash Borer NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth

A North Texas city is taking steps to try and stay ahead of an invasive species that causes havoc in ash trees. The Emerald Ash Borer has already been found in ...

Why We Should Rethink How We Talk About "Alien" Species Smithsonian

In South Texas, government agents patrol a barrier line that snakes some 500 miles along the course of the Rio Grande. Their mission: to protect their country ...

Invasive zebra mussels infest Lewisville, Flower Mound area lakes Community Impact Newspaper

Sep 6, 2018: Local entities are taking steps to ensure that an expected infestation of zebra mussels at Grapevine Lake does not interfere with water intake or ...

Once Exotic Pet Parrots are Now Thriving in the Wild in Unsuspecting Places Like Chicago, New York The Weather Channel

Parrots were introduced to the U.S. as exotic pets in the 1960s, but now they are thriving in the wild in even the most unlikely environments. There are now at ...

Non-natives are not so loathsome doves Chron

A burglary in the Bahamas and the threat of a volcano eruption on the island of Guadeloupe set in motion one of the fastest and most widespread invasions of a ...

Invasive species target Texas Hill Country FOX 29

FREDERICKSBURG, Texas - The Texas Parks & Wildlife is working to remove an invasive species along Texas Hill Country rivers and streams.Arundo can grow ...

Ted Cruz Files Bill To Bring More Water, And More Invasive Species, Into Texas KUT

In 2016, Texas was one of the fastest growing states in the country, adding almost a half-million people in a year's time. With growth like that, securing.

Giant salvinia clears substantially thanks to weevils and freeze EastTexasMatters.com

The invasive giant salvinia plant is under control, seeing a dramatic decrease at Caddo Lake, thanks to the efforts of the Uncertain Morley Hudson Weevil ...

How Does This Aquarium Fish Thrive In Waller Creek? KUT

Austin is the unique home to a thriving wild population of one of the most common pet fish in the world: the variable platy fish (on sale for $1.59 at.

Invasive zebra mussel populations may explode in North Texas Fort Worth Star Telegram

Zebra mussel populations are continuing to grow at Eagle Mountain Lake and Lake Bridgeport. Officials are monitoring those lakes to see if the invasive species ...

Grackles are everywhere, so they must be invasive, right? austin360

Wrong.Even though grackles might seem like they are taking over the city, University of Texas biology professor and longtime birder Peter English doesn't ...

Latest invasive species threats a big concern Chron

Despite spending more than a decade and millions of dollars in the effort, Texas continues losing ground in what has evolved into a war of containment aimed ...

So Long, Pink Bollworm agprofessional.com

Coordinated work between growers and industry finally snuff out fearsome cotton pest.

Hunting in Texas: 3 Invasive Species and State's Rules for Hunting Them Newsmax

When it comes to hunting in Texas, the state has more distinctive eco-regions than any other state in the continental U.S. With such a diverse spectrum of native ...

UT Austin Establishes Texas Invasive Species Program with $2.7 Million from Lee and Ramona Bass Foundation University of Texas at Austin News

To combat and manage pesky invasive species such as fire ants, tawny crazy ants and Cactoblastis moths, the Texas Invasive Species Program has been ...

Invasive plants are growing problem on Texas waters Chron.com

As it has too many times in Texas, it took just one mistake - a single ill-considered, irresponsible action - to doom a wonderful little fishing and waterfowling ...

Embracing 9 of the Non-Native and Invasive Species that We Love to Hunt and Fish Outdoor Life Magazine

For readers who follow environmental headlines, it may not be news that the list of the world's 100 worst invasive species includes wild boar, feral goats, and ...

Fishing in Texas: 6 Invasive Aquatic Species to Texas and Its Rules for Catching Them Newsmax

Fishing in Texas presents opportunities for anglers to catch any number of fish. However, there's a danger to the fishing in Texas: invasive aquatic species that ...

The last places on Earth with no invasive species BBC News

Pockets of land and water that are free from 'alien' species are few and far between, finds Rachel Nuwer. Yet could we reverse the tide of these pests?

The dirty dozen: 12 of the most destructive invasive animals in the United States Washington Post

For some animals, there's no such thing as a dog-eat-dog world. They rule. Animals from around the world that stow away in airplanes, ships and the luggage of ...

Recent freezes aid in war against invasive aquatic species Chron

Texas freshwater anglers, boaters and others who enjoy and benefit from the state's rivers, reservoirs and other inland waters received a couple of welcome, ...

Invasive Zebra Mussels May Have Finally Met Their Match StateImpact Texas

At first glance, zebra mussels appear harmless, perhaps even cute. But the tiny creatures are anything but cute for Texas lakes. Originally from Eurasia, zebra ...

Iguana Injured After Being Swung Around By Its Tail and Thrown, Now in Protective Custody The Epoch Times

An iguana swung around by its tail before being thrown at by a man remains in protective custody with police in Ohio as of May 2, awaiting approval from local ...

Invasive 'Devil Fish' Plague Mexico's Waters. Can't Beat 'Em? Eat 'Em NPR

The armored catfish erodes shorelines and devastates marine plants — and its numbers have exploded. So researchers, chefs and fishermen are trying to ...

Invasive Crazy Ants Are Displacing Fire Ants, Researchers Find University of Texas at Austin News

Invasive “crazy ants” are displacing fire ants in areas across the southeastern United States, according to researchers at The University of Texas at Austin. It's the ...

Blood and Beauty on a Texas Exotic-Game Ranch The New York Times

UVALDE, Tex. — On a ranch at the southwestern edge of the Texas Hill Country, a hunting guide spotted her cooling off in the shade: an African reticulated ...

Feral hogs cause up to $2.5 billion in damage a year, so the government is boosting efforts to fight them CNBC

Wild hogs are in at least 39 states and cost up to $2.5 billion annually due to the damage they cause farmers and other industries, but the USDA is fighting back ...

Animals Can anything stop the big pig invasion? Science News for Students

Millions of wild pigs roam North America, causing billions of dollars in damage every year. Scientists are looking for new ways to stop the swine.

In Texas, hunting hogs out of a helicopter is big business Marketplace APM

Feral hogs cause almost $800 million in annual crop damage across the U.S. according to the United States Department of Agriculture. More than a quarter of ...

Officials: Bio-control steps making progress against invasive plant at Caddo Lake Longview News-Journal

UNCERTAIN — A large number of plant-munching weevils have survived the winter and are making strides in the fight against invasive giant salvinia at Caddo ...

A Tale of Fledgling Birds, Invasive Species and Climate Change StateImpact Texas

As little birds learn to fly, experts say they face plenty of threats.

The Wall (of Reeds) that the Border Patrol Would Like to Tear Down The New Yorker

Brian Barth on a tiny wasp's role in the U.S. government's efforts to eradicate an invasive grass that lines the Rio Grande.

Researchers ask for help in documenting spread of invasive lizard Chron.com

Researchers are asking Montgomery County residents to be on the lookout for an invasive species of brown lizard driving out its green, less aggressive cousin.

A Plague of Pigs in Texas | Science Smithsonian

About 50 miles east of Waco, Texas, a 70-acre field is cratered with holes up to five feet wide and three feet deep. The roots below a huge oak tree shading a ...

The Green Anole, Your Resident Backyard Lizard, Is Being Pushed Out By Its Uglier Cousin Texas Monthly (subscription)

The green anole is being displaced by its faster, fiercer relative, the brown anole.

Ebay traders of invasive species say they were unaware of legal restrictions The Guardian

Multiple listings of banned species found and since Guardian investigation 19 ads were closed down – but controlling the trade is akin to a game of ...

Killer bees stung Texas man 600 times — then attacked his wife as she helped, she says The Charlotte Observer

Africanized bees — known as killer bees — sent a Texas couple to the hospital. Vern Roberts says he was stung about 600 times while mowing the lawn, and ...

How Hill Country Grazing Led to Cedar Fever in Texas StateImpact Texas

Looking for someone to blame for cedar fever? Try your ancestors.

Tiny zebra mussels growing into Texas-size threat Houston Chronicle

zebra mussels are an outsize threat to Texas' waters, alien invaders bringing with them the prospect of significant ecologic and economic damage to the state's ...

9 Delicious Invasive Species You Should Be Eating GOOD Lite

Chefs around the country are adding invasive species to gourmet meals.

Asian lady bugs invading Texas and Louisiana - Orange Leader Orange Leader

By Eric Williams. The Orange Leader. An invasive insect species could be making itself at home in your house, and an LSU AgCenter entomologist says the ...

Waging war on cedar trees | Ag News High Plains Journal

Decades ago, before the white man forced the Native Americans off the Great Plains, the buffalo were plentiful and cedar trees were sparse. In those days Native ...

Is It Legal to Kill Bigfoot in Texas? StateImpact Texas

We've been talking a lot about invasive species in Texas as of late, paying special attention to the issue of feral hogs, which are growing in number and cause ...

Black Tiger Shrimp Texas Monthly

Black tiger shrimp give a new meaning to the term “jumbo shrimp.”

Wild About Texas: Brown anole got to Texas as fast as it could Standard-Times

The Brown Anole (Anolis sagrei) is one of two species of anoles that currently reside in Texas, but this species is not native to this state.

Where did those nasty Bradford pear trees come from and why are they so popular? Dallas News

The Bradford pear was the best tree -- glorious blooms in spring and fiery foliage in the fall, fast growing, not too tall. In the 1960s, the...

Texas' 'Fish Whisperer' finds plecostomus in a Houston creek Chron.com

Texas' 'Fish Whisperer,' Kyle Naegeli recently found a large plecostomus in a Houston creek, catching it with his own two hands. Commonly-known as a "sucker ...

No signs of zebra mussels in Lake Waco, officials urge continued caution Waco Tribune-Herald

While Lake Waco hasn't seen signs of reproducing zebra mussels the last two times waters were tested, city and state officials are still warning visitors to be ...

Michigan officials send warning about crawfish, call them 'invasive' KPRC Houston

In Texas and Louisiana, we invite family and friends over to eat crawfish as part of a massive feast. We go to our favorite Cajun restaurants to indulge in their ...

Piranhas, other dangerous exotic species found in Texas' waterways Houston Chronicle

When a pre-teen girl dunked a hook baited with a piece of hot dog into the 23-acre lake in Tom Bass Park on Aug. 27 and pulled out a flapping, snapping, ...

Culling feral hogs from the sky in Texas takes off Reuters

(Reuters) - In Texas, the pigs do not fly but the hunters do. Unidentified participants take part in a wild hog helicopter hunt near Houston, Texas, U.S. in this ...

This little flea -- and its huge appetite -- could ruin the Great Lakes Chicago Tribune

It's just a flea, no bigger than a speck. But it eats like a hog. That's a problem because what the invasive spiny water flea from Europe and Asia likes to eat most is ...

Bun Lai, Miya’s forage an international reputation with sustainable sushi and cocktails New Haven Register

Editor's note: This is the fifth in a series of the Register's Top 50 stories. NEW HAVEN — Bun Lai smiles when he thinks about the time he and his brother Ted ...

Fire Ant Meets Its Match in Texas Science News

Insect's sting thwarted by tawny crazy ant's antivenom.

Do Your Part: 5 Invasive Species You Can Hunt or Catch OutdoorHub

Want to help out the environment and enjoy some time in the outdoors at the same time? Consider hunting, trapping, or fishing for one of the species below.

The famous WWII kissing sailor, George Mendonsa, dies at 95 KXAN.com

MIDDLETOWN, R.I. (Nexstar) — The Rhode Island man who claimed to be the sailor kissing a nurse in an iconic image at the end of World War II has died.

Where'd all the green anoles go? KHOU

KHOU 11 checked in with Dr. Michele Johnson, an associate professor of biology at Trinity University, who's studied anoles for 15 years.

Customs Finds 7 Pounds of Live Snails in Box Labeled ‘Shoes and Honey’ Food & Wine

Who hasn't occasionally got a craving for a foreign delicacy? However, if you're hankering happens to be for seven pounds of contraband Mediterranean snails, ...

WILD ABOUT TEXAS: Red-eared sliders are almost everwhere San Angelo Standard Times

They are a good example of how animals that have been in captivity should not be released back into the wild.

Do NOT Plant Chinese Tallows (it’s illegal) Houston Chronicle

A reader's took exception to my Christmas Day “Thanks for the Fall Color!” blog post that — in addition to listing great fall color plants! — urged folks NOT to plant ...

As cold temperatures stun Houston area, take care when considering bringing wild animals inside KPRC Click2Houston

As temperatures fall throughout Houston, be sure to carefully think it over before bringing frozen, wild animals into your home.

Armyworm infestation sweeps across Texoma yards KXII-TV

SHERMAN, Texas -- A highly invasive species is destroying Texoma lawns. Armyworms cause damage during their larva stage, when they're caterpillars, eating ...

Giant Huntsman Spider: World's Largest Spider By Leg Span LiveScience.com

Huntsman spiders are long-legged predators that hunt down their prey. One species of huntsman spider has a leg span of 12 inches — or as big as a dinner ...

Armored catfish are decimating Texas waterways Houston Chronicle

The only positive thing to possibly come from the continuing spread of non-native armored catfish in Texas waterways is that one of them will help put Andrew ...

What is blooming gets attention Midland Reporter-Telegram

Whatever is blooming at the time is what gets the attention. What's getting attention right now is vitex (Vitex agnus-castus), also known as chaste tree, Texas lilac ...

'Weed From Hell' Found In Texas Science Daily (press release)

Called alternately the "plant from hell" and "Sodom's apples" in Florida, the thorny weed can quickly take over pastures, first displacing the grass, then the cattle.

Why the beautiful Bradford Pear is the ‘Worst Tree in the World’ KHOU

Bradford Pear trees are prolific, but their spring blooms also bring out a chorus of committed haters.

Why is the bark falling off of this lakeside oak tree? Dallas News

Question: There is some sort of "bark blight" infecting our tall native oak trees. The bark flakes off in small sections. We are told by the local tree *service* that there ...

Seven Myth-Busting Facts About Alligator Gar Field and Stream

Forget what you've heard about alligator gar. After a fishing trip in Texas, the author came home with some myth-busting facts on these toothy bottom ...

SPECIAL REPORT: Is poison the answer to feral hog problem? ReporterNews.com

Questions raised about hog poison's effect on land, other animals, and even about the hogs' suffering.

5 Terrible Lessons Learned from Invasive Species Care2.com

Animals from one part of the world have ended up in far, far away places due to human activity. In more than a few cases, these "invasive species" have ...

Q&A with new garden director Damon Waitt The Daily Tar Heel

The North Carolina Botanical Garden hired a new director, Damon Waitt. Waitt is currently the senior director and botanist at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower ...

Hunting in Texas: Animals to Hunt Year-round Newsmax

Texas has some great hunting, but only certain animals are open to being legally taken year-round.

Work underway to grow plants, bring Lake Livingston's fishery back to life Chron.com

The future of Lake Livingston's largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish and the dozens of other aquatic wildlife species dependant on healthy, robust shallow-water ...

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