Alien species are plants and animals that are not native to a given region, but which have been brought there by people. Once in these new areas, they can increase in numbers and displace native species from their habitats. Alien invasion is the least recognized threat to wildlife today.
People understand that habitat destruction and pollution are harmful to wildlife.
Simply protecting habitats from further development won't do the trick for most of our endangered species. We need to control invasive, alien plants and animals that are degrading the remaining habitats. Tax credits and direct grants are needed for landowners who agree to manage their properties in ways beneficial to endangered species, including controlling harmful alien species. The Environmental Defense Fund, a leading national, NY-based nonprofit organization, represents 300,000 members. EDF links science, economics, and law to create innovative, equitable and economically viable solutions to today's environmental problems.