Introducing non-native species into new environments can lead to serious consequences. This action can make it difficult for these species to survive and disrupt the ecological balance of the local area, potentially resulting in invasive species.
The following story serves as a testament to this issue.
In the 1920s, several non-native species were introduced to the United States. During an investigation in Europe, a member of the American Acclimatization Society discovered a local bird species known as the European Starling. This bird features glossy plumage, gray-black wings, and distinctive clusters of black feathers around its neck.
The European Starling becomes an invasive bird in the US.
According to experts, animal habitats should adhere to certain rules, as artificial changes can lead to severe repercussions.
Ignoring the concerns of other specialists, this man returned to the US with 60 European Starlings. The expert hoped that these birds could breed in America and bring different colors to the American sky.
Initially, the expert was worried whether these non-native birds could withstand the cold in the US. However, to his surprise, not only did these starlings survive the harsh winter, but they also reproduced rapidly. In just one year, the starling population skyrocketed from 60 to over 60,000 birds. This burgeoning population brought about a “disaster” for the United States.
By 1960, the number of European Starlings in the US had surged to 200 million, officially becoming an aerial threat in the nation. These starlings often fly in large flocks, “dominating” the skies over many native bird species.
The Nightmare of Invasive Birds
Aircraft can encounter accidents if they collide with flocks of starlings.
However, this was not the worst part. According to statistics, more than half of the aircraft accidents in the US during the 1960s were caused by collisions with starling flocks.
On October 4, 1960, a Lockheed L188A Electra took off from Logan Airport in the US. Unexpectedly, just a few minutes after takeoff, the aircraft collided with a flock of starlings. Some of the starlings were sucked into the aircraft’s engine, causing sudden power loss and ultimately leading to a tragic disaster.
The plane crashed directly into Winthrop Bay, resulting in the deaths of 62 people. After an investigation, authorities found 75 dead starlings on the runway.
Experts state that large aircraft can continue flying after colliding with birds weighing up to 2 kg. However, even small birds like starlings can damage an aircraft’s engine upon collision.
Starlings also consume crops and fruits, causing significant losses for American agriculture. Preliminary estimates by authorities indicate that the US incurs approximately $1 billion in damages each year due to this invasive bird.
Although the US has allowed hunting of starlings, the reproductive rate of these birds is too high. Experts estimate that even if one million starlings are killed each year, their numbers would still remain high, making them the “rulers” of the American skies.
The Green Iguana is an invasive species in Florida (US). (Photo: Sun Sentinel).
Besides starlings, the US has also struggled with the rampant invasion of the Green Iguana. This species is native to Brazil and Mexico. Green Iguanas first appeared in southern Florida in the 1960s after some residents released them into the wild due to their large size.
Unexpectedly, due to their adaptation to the subtropical environment of Florida, the Green Iguana population increased rapidly. Authorities attempted to manage the iguana population by hiring a private company to patrol parks and public areas in 2020. Although over 200 iguanas were removed, their numbers continued to rise.
Starlings often fly in large flocks. (Photo: Newsflare).
The relationship between humans and nature is very close. Both sides maintain their own balance. Once the balance of one side is disrupted, the other will undoubtedly be affected. Therefore, humans should refrain from intervening in any competitive forms in nature. Otherwise, it will disrupt the ecosystem, leading to consequences that are difficult to rectify.
| Starlings are small birds similar to sparrows, but they have a forked tail, long, slender beaks. A large flock of starlings can consist of hundreds of thousands of individuals. The European Starling is highly adaptable to various climates and geographical areas. Studies suggest that they often group together when flying to protect themselves from predators. |
