Native and Invasive Species

By: Ian Miller and Evie Haug

The natives are back, but this time with a sinister twist… invasive species! So, what's the difference? Native species originated in the area they live in, while invasive species are brought from foreign places. Invasive species can destroy ecosystems quickly. While they may seem harmless, they are not.

Milkweed and White-Tailed Deer are examples of native species. Milkweed is a plant loved by Monarch butterflies. It’s a great addition to any garden because it is easy to grow and attracts many pollinators. White-Tailed Deer have white tails and shed their antlers in the winter. They can jump up to 8 feet!

The Amur Honeysuckle and Mute Swan are both invasive. At first glance, the Amur Honeysuckle may look and smell wonderful, but its early leaves block the sun and kill the natives. The Mute Swans are also invasive and have survived because of their aggressive behavior. They have bright orange beaks, making them hard to miss.

We hope you have learned more about some of the species you will find in Indiana. Remember: Native Good. Invasive Bad.

A monarch butterfly on some native milkweed

Photo credit: Ian miller