Invasive Species Threaten South Carolina’s Ecosystems

Invasive Species Cause Concern in South Carolina

Greenville – If you thought wildlife in South Carolina was all charming and lovely, think again! Over the past few years, some invasive species have been making headlines for their not-so-friendly impacts on local ecosystems. With the sun shining brightly and temperatures climbing to a warm high of 88°F, it’s easy to forget that many creatures don’t share our love for this state. So grab a cold drink and let’s take a stroll through the wild side of South Carolina!

A Wild Hog Invasion

First up on our hit list is the infamous feral hog. Can you believe that Spanish explorers introduced these hefty creatures over 500 years ago? Today, there are approximately 150,000 wild hogs traipsing around South Carolina, and they mean business. Weighing in at around 250 pounds and capable of sprinting at speeds of 30 miles per hour, these hogs have no problem competing with our native wildlife for food. Will Dillman, assistant chief of wildlife with the S.C. Department of Natural Resources, warned, “They’re by far the ones that probably have some of the most damaging impacts around the state.” These hogs not only wreak havoc on food sources and native habitats, but they also carry diseases, making them a significant problem for residents and farmers alike.

Coyotes Among Us

Next on our list are those sly coyotes. You might think of them as a common sight, but perched at the top of their game, they’re not native to South Carolina either. Making their debut in 1978, coyotes have become a serious concern, especially regarding the state’s beloved white-tailed deer. In fact, a study showed a more than 30 percent decline in deer populations since 2002, thanks largely to these crafty canines. Recently, Sullivan’s Island forked over more than $20,000 on coyote reduction efforts, proving these guys aren’t just a nuisance – they’re a glaring issue.

The Mighty Hornets

But wait, there’s more! Enter the yellow-legged hornet, a menace that has recently crossed the border from Georgia. And while they might not sting any worse than your garden-variety hornet, they’ve got a particular taste for honey bees. Invasive species program manager at Clemson University, Matthew Howle, explained the situation, saying, “These hornets can go and hover in front of a honey bee colony and pick honey bees out of the air.” That’s right; these hornets are “butchering” our bee population, causing potential turmoil for both agriculture and the environment.

An Eye on the Tegu

Then there are tegus, a four-foot-long lizard that’s caused quite a stir since its arrival in South Carolina in 2020. Likely arriving through the pet trade, these South American creatures are predators of endangered species and can devour native animals like quail and birds. It’s enough to make anyone want to keep a watchful eye, as they potentially adapt very well to our warm climate.

Funky Frogs and Beetles

And we can’t forget about the Cuban tree frog, an amphibian that’s taken a liking to South Carolina’s swampy regions in recent years. These critters may look harmless, but they devour native frogs and sometimes even invade our homes, hopping uninvited into bathrooms. Then there’s the Asian long-horned beetle, which has also made its entry into our state and is notorious for destroying native trees. Matthew Howle highlighted their destructive tendencies, indicating that they lay eggs which chew their way through trees, causing significant structural weakness.

The Spotted Lanternfly: A Looming Threat

If you’ve seen headlines about the spotted lanternfly, also referred to as the “Regina George of insects,” it’s for good reason. While they haven’t made their appearance in South Carolina just yet, experts warn they’re on their way. These pests pose a huge threat to agriculture and could lead to devastating financial losses if they set up shop here.

So, as delightful as sunny days might be in Greenville, it’s essential to keep an eye out for these invasive species. Staying informed and alert can help protect our cherished natural resources. Remember, folks: if you see something unusual, report it! The earlier we detect these pests, the better chance we have of keeping our ecosystems healthy. Here’s to our beautiful state—and let’s keep it thriving!