Overview
Non-native species that have been introduced to Alberta accidentally or deliberately are ranked exotic (also called alien) in Alberta’s general status assessment.
A small portion of non-native species is considered invasive. These species threaten the environment, economy or society as they compete with native species for resources, alter ecosystems, disrupt food sources and introduce parasites and disease. For more information on invasive species, visit:
Summary of key results
Among all 5 vertebrate groups, fish have the highest proportion (20%) of exotic species. No exotic amphibian or reptile species were known to be present in Alberta between 2000 and 2020 (Figure 1).
Resources
Fish and wildlife reporting and legislation
Invasive species
Species at risk strategies and reports
- Alberta's species at risk strategies
- Amphibian species at risk reports
- Bird species at risk reports
- Fish species at risk reports
- Mammal species at risk reports
- Reptile species at risk reports
Wild species status
- Definitions of general status categories: General status of Alberta wild species
- General status of Alberta wild species
- Wild Species Status Search
Charts
Figure 1. Number of native and exotic vertebrate species in Alberta in 2020
Chart data table
Group | Native | Exotic |
---|---|---|
Reptiles | 9 | 0 |
Mammals | 89 | 8 |
Fish | 52 | 13 |
Birds | 424 | 7 |
Amphibians | 10 | 0 |