Invasive non-native species are one of the main threats to biodiversity and are one of the top 5 drivers of biodiversity decline.
Invasive non-native species can:
- Take over entire areas of land and out-compete native species for resources such as water and light.
- Carry and spread diseases to native species.
- Hybridise with our native species until their unique characteristics are lost. An example of this is the native bluebell, a beautiful and iconic woodland species, which is currently threatened by the invasive Spanish bluebell.
It is important we do what we can to limit the spread of invasive species into the countryside.
What can I do?
There are lots of ways you can help tackle the threat of invasive species.
- Avoid planting invasive non-native species in your garden. Some non-native invasive plant species were originally introduced as garden ornamentals before escaping and becoming invasive. Examples include cotoneaster species, cherry laurel and rhododendron. Readily research species before planting and consider planting native species or non-invasive alternatives.
- Prevent plants from spreading – make sure that plants are kept in your garden and prevent them from jumping the fence and spreading into the wild. Pull out any seedlings or runners you spot to stop them from spreading.
- Dispose of garden waste responsibly - Many people may think that green garden waste is fine to throw over their fence or into a nearby woodland because it will biodegrade. However, this is one of the most common ways invasive species spread. Garden waste can be disposed of responsibly through the Council’s green recycling scheme.
- Report sightings – report any non-native invasive species you see in the wild via the LERC Wales app & INNS Mapper
Additional links:
Action for Nature Gardeners and Allotmenteers
Wales Resilient Ecological Network
GB Non-native Species Secretariat – What can I do?
UK Government: How to stop invasive non-native plants from spreading