Non-Native Species


Non-native species (also called introduced, alien, or exotic species) are organisms living or growing in an area outside of their original, indigenous range. There are many non-native species in the Los Angeles region. While some arrived on their own, or by natural processes, many have been either intentionally or accidentally introduced (i.e. transported) by humans. 

Not all introduced species are necessarily harmful, but some non-native species are so successful in their new environment that they become invasive. Invasive species are non-native organisms that cause economic or environmental problems due to their uncontrolled population growth and spread. They can have serious impacts on regional biodiversity, agriculture, and other industries.  

We can use species distribution models to depict the vulnerability of different environments to an invasive species. Sometimes, researchers also use models to predict the spread of a species in a new area. This can help conservation planners decide where and how to focus their management efforts. 


Birds

Red-crowned parrot, Amazona viridigenalis
Yellow-chevroned parakeet, Brotogeris chiriri
Yellow-headed parrotAmazona oratrix

Insects

Invasive shot-hole borer, Euwallacea nr. fornicatus

Mammals

Eastern fox squirrel, Sciurus niger

Plants

Black mustard, Brassica nigra
Fountain grassPennisetum setaceum
Giant reed, Arundo donax

Reptiles and Amphibians

American bullfrog, Lithobates catesbeianus