What is a native species?

A native species is defined as one that originates and naturally occurs in a specific region. This means that the species has developed and evolved in that particular ecosystem over time, forming a crucial part of the local biodiversity. Native species are often well-adapted to their environment, playing key roles in their ecosystems, such as providing food for local wildlife or contributing to soil health.

In contrast, species that have been introduced by humans do not qualify as native, since their presence in an area is a result of intentional or accidental human influence. Seasonal migrants, while they may also be part of a region's ecosystem, do not establish permanent populations in the locations they visit. Additionally, species that adapt to all environments, while resilient, may not qualify as native since their adaptability often leads to introductions in various regions rather than a specific origin associated with a defined locality.