Hi! My name is Jake, and I live in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas.

Here in the Rio Grande Valley, we have hot days most of the year, a lot of orange trees, and many beautiful birds.

The Valley didn't always look like this. There used to be thornforests and wetlands formed by the resacas.

Resaca: an old part of a river or stream that is filled with water to become home for plants and animals.

New invasive species, like the Mexican Fan Palm, Giant Reed, and Saltcedar tree, were introduced, taking over most of the land.

  Giant Reed 

   Saltcedar

 Mexican Fan Palm

The changes didn't stop with the trees. Farming expanded, forcing many animals out. 

Through urban development, water usage, and pollution, major changes have been made to native animal species. 

Urban Development: New houses, buildings, and roads are built.

Native animals like the Ocelot, Texas Tortoise, and Red Crowned Parrots are in danger from 95% of their native habitat being cleared. 

Ocelot 

Texas Tortoise

Red Crowned Parrots

New species like the feral hog, European Starlings, Armored Catfish, and Tawny Crazy Ants were introduced, leaving little room and food for the natives. 

Species: a group of living things (plants, animals, insects...) that are the same kind.

Feral Hog

Tawny Crazy Ants

European Starlings