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National Invasive Species Awareness Week (Feb. 24-28, 2025) is here to remind us that some of the biggest ecological nightmares are critters that don’t belong here. These invasive species invasive species
An invasive species is any plant or animal that has spread or been introduced into a new area where they are, or could, cause harm to the environment, economy, or human, animal, or plant health. Their unwelcome presence can destroy ecosystems and cost millions of dollars.
Learn more about invasive species outcompete native wildlife, destroy habitats, damage roads and levees, and throw environments out of balance. But instead of just complaining, we can do something unexpected – eat them!
Eating invasive species can help protect native animals and plants. By hunting, trapping, and eating these invaders, we can reduce their numbers and the harm they cause. To really manage invasive species well, we need a solid plan that includes teamwork, checking to see what’s working, using all tools available, and making sure to fix and protect damaged lands and waters.
With that said, here are five troublesome invasive in the U.S. to consider putting on the table:
Nutria (Myocastor coypus)
Native to: South America
Invasive in: Gulf of America Coast, Atlantic Coast, Pacific Northwest
These oversized, wetland-loving rodents were brought to the U.S. in the early 1900s for the fur trade, and now they’re devouring marshlands. Ok, so how can we help? Nutria gumbo. Their meat is lean, mild, and tastes like rabbit.
Northern Snakehead (Channa argus)
Native to: East Asia
Invasive in: Mid-Atlantic and Southeastern U.S. waterways
Because this sharp-toothed facultative air breather can live outside a body of water for several days, it has the ability to wiggle its way across the land to new freshwater habitats. Luckily, they’re delicious with a firm, white, and flaky meat. Try them in fish tacos, grilled, or fried. It's the catch of the day — pairs perfectly with a strong sense of culinary adventure.
Green Iguana (Iguana iguana)
Native to: Central and South America
Invasive in: Florida and other warm states
These cold-blooded invaders are eating Florida’s native plants and destabilizing seawalls. The solution? Iguana stew. Their meat is often called “chicken of the trees” for its mild flavor.
Silver Carp
Native to: East Asia
Invasive in: Midwest and Southeast rivers and lakes
These high-jumping fish clog U.S. waterways, alter food chains, and outcompete native species. Often spotted on viral videos slapping some unlucky angler in the face as it bounds into a passing boat, these fish are wreaking havoc on our fisheries. Here’s the good news, they’re surprisingly tasty. Try them grilled, blackened, or turned into crispy fish cakes.
Feral Hogs or Wild Boar (Sus scrofa)
Native to: Europe and Asia
Invasive in: Southeastern U.S., Texas, California, and beyond
Be gone, you feral swine! They aren’t just invasive, they’re a full-blown ecological disaster. Rooting, trampling, and devouring everything in their path, these piggies are tearing up farmland, forests, and wetlands across the country. But there’s a silver lining because wild boar is some of the best-tasting invasive meat you can get.
Leaner and richer in flavor than store-bought pork, wild boar works in everything from smoked barbecue to hearty chili. Grind it for burgers, braise it for tacos, or go full gourmet with wild boar ragu over pasta.
Bonus: Feral hog hunting is encouraged in many states, so you’re not just getting a great meal, you’re doing conservation work with every bite. State programs will vary depending on local laws and the severity of the problem. If you're considering hunting them, make sure you know the state laws to do it safely and effectively.
Summary
Experts warn that eating invasive species might help control them, but it could also make things worse if it causes more demand or people collecting them the wrong way. Scientists, environmental managers, and invasive species consumers should work together to make sure harvesting and consuming invasive species helps protect nature without making things worse.
Outdoor recreation plays a crucial role in conservation because taxes on firearms, ammunition, and angling equipment help fund wildlife management and habitat protection. But before you grab a fishing pole or hunting rifle, check your state’s regulations and restrictions.
Before you sauté, make sure you are prepared and informed. Know the proper techniques for capturing and handling the species and any potential health risks. Some species may carry poisons, diseases, or dangerous chemicals that can harm people. Don’t collect invasive animals or plants from polluted areas, and cook the items to the right temperature to stay safe. Then, get cooking and help control these invasive species one bite at a time.
