Native Species

What is a native species?

A native species is one that existed somewhere in southcentral Ontario prior to European settlement and is adapted to local conditions. The term “native” often has a political connotation—e.g. native to Ontario—although, given the size of Ontario, this can be less than helpful. Indigenous is a term that is often used interchangeably with “native”, but has a more useful, locally explicit meaning. An indigenous species is adapted to local conditions such as a river watershed, or even more specifically, to the bottom slopes of the river valley.

Why should you care about native species?

• They are adapted to the local climate, site conditions and other indigenous species.
• They have evolved with local insects and diseases, and problems tend to be minimal.
• They perpetuate local ecosystem functions such as soil and water conservation and wildlife habitat.
• They provide economic benefits—food, wood products, recreation, etc.

So how do you know which species are native to your area? Click the map below to narrow down your location: