Bird nest in artichoke thistle.
Invasive plants and wildlife interact in numerous ways. In some cases, invasive plants replace native species that wildlife depend on for food or shelter. In other situations, wildlife use and spread invasive plants. These interactions are part of the factors considered in the California Invasive Plant Inventory. While it is difficult to quantify the impacts of a specific invasive plant on a particular animal, several success stories show how removing invasive plants can help wildlife
Wildlife and Invasive Plants Conference
To explore how weed workers and wildlife biologists can join together to protect ecological diversity, Cal-IPC and the Western Section of the The Wildlife Society sponsored a joint symposium in Monterey, January 30-31, 2007, entitled “Wildlife and Invasive Plants: Finding Common Ground to Protect Biodiversity.” Two hundred Cal-IPC and TWS members discussed interactions between wildlife and invasive plants and how our two professions can improve our own interactions. The meeting ended with a panel of experts who addressed the research gaps that need to be closed.
- Read a summary of the symposium from the Cal-IPC News (pdf, Spring/Summer 2007, p.8)
- Program and Abstracts (pdf)
Other Information on Invasive Plants and Wildlife
Defending Favorite Places – This video available online from the US Forest Service describes how hunters and anglers can keep their favorite spots free from invasive plants.
Rare butterfly makes comeback on L.A.-area beaches
(Los Angeles Times, July 9, 2007)
Recovery of least Bell’s vireo after suppression of giant reed in California (pdf) (Invasive Weeds Awareness Coalition)
