[ Ireland’s sika deer may face cull following ‘invasive species’ classificationOpens in new window ]And it’s not just plants. While the centre provides an early warning system for the arrival of invasive – or potentially invasive – species, the system for managing the response to these species is confused. Definitions for what actually constitutes an invasive species vary, but typically emphasise the potential harm that they can do native biodiversity and/or the economy. Some of these cause tremendous ecological harm, such as sheep, goats or Sitka spruce, but are rarely thought of as invasive species. “The National Biodiversity Action Plan tells us we’re looking at a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, and, certainly with alien invasive species, that’s where we need to start looking.

Source: The Irish Times February 12, 2026 07:36 UTC