When Hunting Becomes Conservation
Not every hunt is about tradition or trophy racks. Sometimes, it’s about restoring balance. Across the U.S., invasive species are wreaking havoc on native wildlife, destroying habitats, and costing billions in damage.
From feral hogs tearing up farmland to Burmese pythons devouring native mammals in the Everglades, these species didn’t evolve here—and nature hasn’t caught up to control them.
That’s where hunters come in.
More and more states are opening hunting seasons—or even year-round opportunities—to help manage invasive populations. The result? A unique mix of challenge, adventure, and real ecological impact.
What Are Invasive Species?
In simple terms, invasive species are non-native plants or animals that cause harm to the environment, economy, or human health. They often reproduce quickly, compete with native species for resources, and lack natural predators to keep them in check.
Examples of major invasive animals in the U.S.: