Invasive Animals

What makes a species "invasive"?

"Invasive" species come from other watersheds, other regions or other continents. In a new landscape, they may have no natural controls, such as predators. As a result, non-native animals, such as feral hogs, often eat local wildlife or their foods and consume or destroy their habitat. Invasive plants, such as spotted knapweed, can also outcompete crops and livestock forage, reducing economic productivity.

What's the difference between "invasive" and "nuisance"?

"Nuisance" animals are native to the local landscape but can cause problems. Canada geese, for example, have historically used Missouri for summer breeding grounds, but they have become nuisances where they have year-round access to short, palatable grass and open water.

What can I do about invasive species?

If you care about crops and native wildlife, please do what you can to control invasive species when you landscape, farm, hunt, fish, camp, or explore nature. Invasive species and their seeds can travel on tires, clothes, in bait buckets and firewood.

Asian Carp Control

Because black, silver carp and bighead carp are non-native Asian fish that can cause big problems, it's illegal to use them as live bait in Missouri. Keep them from spreading to your favorite sport-fishing water.

Asian Long-Horned Beetle Control

These invasive beetles kill hardwood trees. Learn to identify their signs and help keep them out of Missouri.

Chinese Mystery Snail Distribution Map

Download this map in showing the distribution of Chinese mystery snails in Missouri.

Emerald Ash Borer Management

Emerald ash borer is an exotic beetle that kills ash trees. Missouri's EAB infestation was discovered in July 2008. Learn to identify and report EAB in your area.

European Wood Wasp Control

Learn to identify and control this destructive forest pest, which attacks Missouri's pine trees.

Feral Hog Control

Because they are non-native, destructive and dangerous, feral hogs should be eliminated from Missouri. This section discusses efforts to control feral hogs in our state.

Gypsy Moth Control

These hungry insects aren't in Missouri yet, but they will drastically alter our forests if and when they arrive. Learn to avoid spreading these destructive forest pests.

Pigeon Control

Learn to control non-native common pigeons on your Missouri property.

Starling Control

Learn to control European starlings in Missouri livestock feedlots.

Zebra Mussel Control

These invasive, fingernail-sized, black-and-white striped "clams" hurt Missouri's waters. Learn to avoid spreading them.