Hundreds of invasive species causing harm in Jersey - Jersey Evening Post
by Newsdesk · Jersey Evening PostPosted inNews
Hundreds of invasive species causing harm in Jersey
by Newsdesk 22 June 202619 June 2026
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AROUND one in seven non-native species introduced to Jersey is now considered invasive – and some are causing serious harm.
Officials are using Invasive Species Week, which begins on Monday, to raise awareness of the growing threat posed by invasive plants and animals such as Asian hornets, Japanese knotweed and sour fig.
Humans have introduced more than 2,000 non-native species to Jersey from around the world over the centuries. While many coexist harmlessly with local wildlife, around 15% are now considered invasive, meaning they spread rapidly and cause damage to the environment, economy or public health.
Among the most recognisable are Asian hornets, which prey on pollinating insects, Japanese knotweed, which can damage infrastructure and is notoriously difficult to eradicate, and sour fig, a fast-growing coastal plant that can crowd out native species.
Officials say invasive species are one of the biggest threats to biodiversity worldwide. They are estimated to cost the UK economy around £2 billion each year and have contributed to 60% of recorded global extinctions.
Some species can also affect food production, damage habitats, spread disease or cause direct harm to people through bites and stings.
To mark Invasive Species Week, the Biosecurity team will be hosting a series of public events aimed at raising awareness and helping islanders learn more about the species found in Jersey.
The programme includes a “Lunch and Learn” session focusing on Asian hornets and other invasive species, information stalls in St Helier and at Ransoms Garden Centre, and a volunteer removal event at Le Port.
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Invasive Species Week events
• Tuesday 23 June – Ecoactive Network Lunch and Learn: “Invasive Species Up Close: Asian Hornets and Beyond” (12.30pm to 1.30pm)
• Thursday 25 June – Be Plant Wise information stall at Ransoms Garden Centre (9am to noon and 1pm to 4pm)
• Friday 26 June – Public information stall at Charing Cross (9am to 5pm) and volunteer invasive species removal event at Le Port (9.30am to 12.30pm)
• Saturday 27 June – Public information stall at Lower Charing Cross (9am to 5pm)
Residents interested in volunteering at invasive species removal events can sign up and find out more by heading to the ‘Eco Active’ webpage on Eventbrite.
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