Helping our native wildlife thrive with the Scottish Invasive Species Initiative

Hear about the Scottish Invasive Species Initiative (SISI) from Project Manager Callum Sinclair of NatureScot. Learn how non-native invasive species like Japanese knotweed and American mink are not just persistent nuisances but significant threats to Scotland's ecosystems and economy. Callum delves into the challenges these species cause and explains the crucial ways we can all prevent and manage their spread.He explains the effective and varied control strategies, from chemical treatments and manual removal, to community-driven efforts. We discuss the impact of these species on native wildlife such as ground-nesting birds, water voles and plants. Callum also emphasises the importance of public awareness and biosecurity measures, demonstrating how community engagement is vital in both reporting sightings and preventing the spread.We hear about the invaluable contributions of volunteers and partners who dedicate their time and resources to this cause, showcasing how teamwork and passion can lead to substantial environmental conservation achievements.More information:Scottish Invasive Species InitiativeNatureScot: Invasive non-native species information GB Non-native Species SecretariatReport a non-native species