Invasive Species are non-native plants, animals, and/or pathogens that when introduced to our environment cause economic or environmental harm.  These non-native species are generally introduced through human-mediated activities. 

In Texas there are more than 800 invasive species. This includes aquatic and terrestrial species.  It is estimated that invasive species cause over one billion dollars in economic impact each year.  

The top invasive plant species in Sunset Valley include:

Invasive animals include:

Although, there are fewer animals.  These animals can have a huge impact. There are also several aquatic invasive species found in Central Texas but not in Sunset Valley.

 The City of Sunset Valley actively treats fire ants in the City's parks.  The City also supports "Ant Day" each spring so that a joint effort is made throughout the City to control fire ants together. 

Additionally,  the City actively controls plants such as Johnson Grass, Chinaberry, Chinese Tallow, Nandina, and other plants species throughout the greenspaces. The City also encourages residents and commercial businesses to plant native plants in their landscaping and yards.  

Reducing European Starling populations is done by removing favored foods such as whole kernel corn and suet.  If suet is used upside down feeders are recommended.  Sealing holes in eaves, vents and siding is also an easy way to prevent nesting within those spaces. Monitor bird houses and make the holes small for native birds to enter and exclude larger birds such as European Starlings. 

Below are links where you can learn more about invasive species:

TexasInvasives.org

Texas Invasive Species Institute

National Audubon Society Invasive Species Management

Texas Imported Fire Ant Research and Management Project

Feral Hogs-Texas Parks and Wildlife

European Starling Information

Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center-Battling Invasives