Exotic or Non-native Wildlife

Wildlife animals that were not originally found on this continent or in certain parts of the continent are called exotics or non-native wildlife. Some animals were introduced accidentally, such as starlings, grackles and crows. They were accidentally transported by humans across natural barriers such as oceans, plains or mountains. Now they're found across North America.

Other exotics (such as axis deer, black buck antelope, fallow deer, carp, brown trout and ring-necked pheasants) were introduced intentionally. They quickly adapted to their new home and now often out-compete native wild animals.

Many introduced exotics don't do well in new habitat. Sometimes they do very well, and may provide food, recreation or research for humans. Exotics can cause problems for native wildlife.

Exotics can:
 Spread disease
 Out-compete native wildlife
 Overrun habitat
 Interbreed
 Die out

As a result, most states and provinces have strict import-export and possession of wildlife laws.