Global Warming

Alien species invasions and global warming a 'deadly duo', warn scientists

Invasions by alien species and global warming form a “deadly duo”, scientists have warned, with the march of Argentine ants in the UK a new example. The public are being asked to be on alert for invaders such as the raccoon dog and Asian hornet, as eradication can be near impossible after a species becomes established.

As trade and human travel has become globalised many thousands of species have crossed oceans or mountain ranges and become established in new regions. Recent research shows that ever more animals and plants are finding their way to foreign lands and that invasive species are a “primary threat” to economies, human wellbeing and wildlife.

For example, the Argentine ant is a species that has some indoor populations in London [and elsewhere], but in the last couple of years we have seen those indoor populations spread outdoors. A little bit more climate warming for the UK and we could see the Argentine ant settling in very well.