Invasive animals pose risks to the Basin
One of the many invasive species that have entered the Columbia Basin is the bullfrog. This species has entered the area through aquariums, pet trades and possibly after science classes and released into the wild and will eat practically anything they can catch including other amphibians that might be endangered in the area.
COURTESY PHOTO/WASHINGTON INVASIVE SPECIES COUNCIL
Northern Pike are an invasive species that are threatening waters just outside of the Columbia Basin. Nicole Jordan from the WDFW said the pike are very aggressive and are detrimental to the native salmon and other fish populations.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has enlisted the help of Puddles, a rescue dog who joined the team last year and has been trained to sniff out invasive species such as zebra and quagga mussels. Invasive mussel species have entered local waterways through the hulls of boats coming out of waters where the mussels originate from.
MOSES LAKE — The Washington Invasive Species Council has 29 animals and insects listed on their site as priority invasive species that have either found themselves at home in the state or are of concern around the country. The Columbia Basin has become home to a number of these species.
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