Nonnative Species

Ecosystem Invaders

You may have heard the terms “invasive” or “non-native” before, but what do they really mean? Non-native describes species living in places they do not naturally inhabit. Non-native species that negatively change the ecosystem are invasive.

Invasive species cause harm to natural environments. This usually means that the invasive plant or animal out-competes native species for critical resources such as food, water, or habitat. Most invasive species become widespread because they lack natural predators. Left unchecked with ample resources, invasive plants and animals can quickly take over. This creates an imbalance in the ecosystem and can cause cascading impacts on the natural environment.

Natural resources staff at the monument monitor changes in the environment and stay vigilant for signs of invasive species.

How You Can Help

Learn about the invasive species in your local area and search for them on your own property. Prevent the spread and learn more about the National Park Service’s Invasive Plant Program here.

Find an invasive species in the monument? Take a photo and upload it to iNaturalist. By engaging in community science, you help Katahdin Woods and Waters track its natural resources!