10 Native UK animals that are invasive around the world

The United Kingdom is home to several native animal species that have become invasive in other parts of the world due to human activities. Here are 10 examples:

European Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus): Originally native to the Iberian Peninsula and parts of France, rabbits were introduced to various countries for hunting and farming purposes. They have become invasive in regions like Australia, where they cause extensive damage to agricultural crops and native vegetation.

Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis): Native to Asia, the common myna was introduced to several countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and parts of North America. It has become invasive, outcompeting native bird species and causing agricultural and ecological impacts.

Brown Rat (Rattus norvegicus): Brown rats, also known as Norway rats, are believed to have originated in northern China or Mongolia. They have spread globally, including to many island ecosystems, causing damage to crops, infrastructure, and impacting native wildlife.

Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans): Red-eared sliders are semi-aquatic turtles native to the southern United States and Mexico. They have become popular pets and have been released or escaped into various countries, competing with native turtle species and disrupting ecosystems.

American Mink (Neovison vison): Originally native to North America, American minks were introduced to Europe for fur farming. Escaped individuals have established invasive populations in several countries, including the UK, where they pose a threat to native wildlife, particularly water voles.

Himalayan Balsam (Impatiens glandulifera): Although not an animal, Himalayan balsam is a plant species native to the Himalayas. It was introduced to the UK as an ornamental plant but has become invasive, spreading rapidly and outcompeting native plants along riverbanks and damp habitats.

Monk Parakeet (Myiopsitta monachus): Monk parakeets are native to South America. They were introduced to various countries, including the UK, where they have established feral populations. They can have adverse impacts on native bird species and cause damage to agricultural crops.

Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica): Another invasive plant species, Japanese knotweed was introduced to the UK as an ornamental plant. It is now widespread and highly invasive, growing aggressively and causing damage to infrastructure and native plant communities.

Canada Goose (Branta canadensis): Originally native to North America, Canada geese have been introduced to various countries, including the UK. They have become invasive in some areas, causing conflicts due to their large numbers, aggressive behavior, and negative impacts on water quality and vegetation.

American Signal Crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus): Native to western North America, American signal crayfish were introduced to Europe for aquaculture purposes. They have become invasive in many water bodies, outcompeting native crayfish species and causing ecological and economic harm.

It is important to note that the introduction and establishment of these species outside their native ranges have had negative impacts on local ecosystems, native species, and human activities. Efforts are being made to manage and control these invasive species in affected areas.