Why You Should Care About Native Species

In a globalized world where people and goods—and with them, insects and plants—are constantly on the move, it can be easy to overlook the importance of native species. The concepts of "native," "invasive," "naturalized," "weedy," and "aggressive" species are often misunderstood or used interchangeably—but these terms have important ecological implications.

Native species are organisms that have evolved over a long period of time in a specific region and are adapted to its local climate, soil, and other species. They play a critical role in supporting biodiversity, providing food and habitat for pollinators, birds, and other wildlife. In contrast, invasive species are non-native organisms that spread rapidly and cause harm to the environment, economy, or human health.

It's important to remember that not all non-native species are invasive. Some become naturalized, meaning they can survive and reproduce without human help but don't necessarily cause harm. Others may act weedy or aggressive, growing or spreading quickly—sometimes outcompeting native plants—but not all aggressive species are technically invasive.

The idea of "native" isn't neatly tied to political borders. While we often associate native status with a country or state, ecosystems don't follow those lines. Within a single country, or even a single state, differences in climate, soil, and local flora and fauna mean that a species native to one region may behave invasively in another.

Additionally, climate change is causing many species to expand or shift their ranges naturally. As temperatures rise and precipitation patterns change, some plants and animals are moving northward or to higher elevations to stay within suitable habitat. While these natural range shifts are different from human introductions of invasive species, they can still have complex ecological consequences—sometimes bringing new competitors or altering local food webs.

For example, black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia), native to parts of the southeastern U.S., is considered invasive in the Northeast and Midwest, where it aggressively invades open habitats and displaces native species (Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States). Even within states, Monterey pine (Pinus radiata)—native to a narrow strip of California's coast—has shown invasive behavior when planted in other parts of the state and beyond (California Native Plant Society)

These examples highlight why ecological context matters. What's native, balanced, and beneficial in one place may be disruptive and harmful in another. Understanding these distinctions helps us make more informed decisions about what we plant, protect, and remove.

Why Native Species Matter

• Support for native insects and pollinators: Many native insects—especially specialist pollinators—rely on specific native plants for food and reproduction. For example, monarch butterflies require milkweed (Asclepias spp.) to lay their eggs. Without native plants, these insects can disappear, disrupting food chains that affect birds, amphibians, and other wildlife.
• Better for birds and wildlife: Native plants produce the seeds, berries, and support insects that native birds and animals rely on. Research shows that landscapes dominated by non-native plants support fewer caterpillars, which are essential food for birds.
• Soil health and ecosystem stability: Native plants are adapted to local soils and weather. Their deep root systems prevent erosion, improve water infiltration, and increase soil organic matter—leading to healthier soils, cleaner waterways, and greater resilience to drought.

How You Can Help Native Species Thrive

You don’t need to completely overhaul your landscape to support native species. Small, intentional changes can make a big difference:

• Plant native species in your yard or community space. Choose plants native to your region, not just your state. Local extension offices, native plant societies, and groups like the Xerces Society offer helpful lists and resources.
• Remove invasive plants when possible. Replacing invasives like burning bush (Euonymus alatus) or Japanese barberry (Berberis thunbergii) with native alternatives can restore balance and reduce spread.
• Avoid seed mixes with unknown species. Many "wildflower" or "pollinator" seed mixes contain aggressive or non-native species. Always read labels and buy from reputable native plant nurseries.
• Support native landscaping in public spaces. Advocate for the use of native species in parks, schoolyards, and municipal landscapes—and encourage invasive species management.
• Educate others. Sharing what you learn with friends, family, and neighbors can spark broader awareness and collective action.

The Role of Education in Preventing Invasive Species

Promoting native species goes hand-in-hand with preventing the spread of invasive ones. Many invasive plants and animals are introduced—intentionally or accidentally—by people who are unaware of their potential impacts. That's why education is one of our most powerful tools for conservation.

How education helps:

• Awareness leads to action. When people understand how invasive species harm ecosystems, they're more likely to avoid high-risk plants and report new pest sightings.
• Early detection matters. Educating gardeners, landowners, and the general public improves our ability to catch invasive species early—before they become widespread and harder to manage.
• Better land stewardship. People who learn to identify native and invasive species are more capable of managing their properties in ways that support biodiversity and ecosystem health.
• Engaging the next generation. Invasive species and native plant topics in school gardens, youth programs, and nature centers help build a lifelong appreciation for local ecosystems.

Extension programs, Master Gardener trainings, native plant groups, and invasive species councils all play critical roles in spreading this knowledge. The more people know, the more they can help protect the landscapes we depend on.

Celebrate Pennsylvania Native Species Day

Each year on May 20, Pennsylvania Native Species Day shines a spotlight on the vital role native plants, animals, and insects play in healthy ecosystems across the Commonwealth. This statewide event raises awareness about the benefits of native species, the threats posed by invasive species, and the actions we can all take to protect our natural heritage.

Whether you attend a local workshop, participate in a habitat restoration project, or simply learn more about native species in your area, Native Species Day is a great opportunity to get involved.

Learn More

If you're interested in learning more about invasive species, their impacts, and what you can do to help, visit the Pennsylvania Governor’s Invasive Species Council website for resources, species profiles, and management recommendations.

You can also join us for our free monthly webinar series, Pennsylvania Invasive Species, to hear from experts and discover practical steps you can take to protect native biodiversity in your community.