Results: Would You Eat These Invasive Species?
Published on 03/08/2025
Source: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2025/03/06/eat-invasive-species-us/81754338007/?tbref=hp
QUESTIONS
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1.
1.
What do iguanas, rodents, fish and wild boars have in common? They're on a list of invasive species that federal officials are encouraging people to eat in an effort to limit damage to ecosystems. Do you have any of these invasive species in your area?
Nutria - oversized, wetland-loving rodents that initially were brought to the U.S. as part of the fur trade, the agency said. "Now they're devouring marshlands," the wildlife service said.
8%
214 votes
Northern snakehead fish - Snakehead fish "compete with native species for food" and habitats, and there is concern that they may outcompete or displace important native species
6%
164 votes
Invasive carp - These high-jumping fish are clogging U.S. waterways and outcompeting native species
12%
323 votes
Green iguana - The species is invasive in Florida and other warm states, where they eat Florida's native plants and destabilize seawalls
5%
124 votes
Wild boar - Rooting, trampling, and devouring everything in their path, these piggies are tearing up farmland, forests, and wetlands across the country.
12%
322 votes
Not Applicable
69%
1856 votes
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"Invasive species outcompete native wildlife, destroy habitats, and mess up ecosystems," the agency wrote. "But rather than just complaining about them, let's put them on the menu." Would you actually eat any of these? If you have eaten them, check them off as well. Nutria - The agency said those who want to eat nutria can try gumbo recipes. "Their meat is lean, mild, and tastes like rabbit," it said.
9%
243 votes
Northern Snakehead fish - The northern snakehead fish can be fried, grilled or turned into tacos, according to the Fish and Wildlife Service.
9%
256 votes
Invasive carp - The agency said that they're "surprisingly tasty" and are delicious when grilled, blackened, or made into "crispy fish cakes."
11%
292 votes
Green Iguana - Wondering how to try them? Iguana stew," the wildlife service said. "Their meat is often called 'chicken of the trees' for its mild flavor."
5%
131 votes
Wild Boar- The agency said wild boar account for "some of the best-tasting invasive meat you can get."Their meat is leaner and more rich in flavor than pork sold in stores, the service said. Their meat can be turned into smoked barbecue, chili, burgers, tacos or wild boar ragu over pasta.
18%
486 votes
Not Applicable
68%
1849 votes
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