Invasive Fauna in Elkhart County

Invasive species of animals not native to Elkhart County are a threat to our natural environment. These species can cause temporary or even permanent damage to things like the environment, native animal and human health, and financial harm to residents.

Residents of Elkhart County are encouraged to recognize and report these invasive species so the situation may be handled by our environmental officials in the proper way. Knowing what to look for is key to removing invasive fauna .

Report all invasive species to the DNR. EDDMaps has a tracking tool for use with your smartphone and mobile device to provide this critical information quickly to officials.

If you need to report an invasive species immediately, you can contact the DNR:

Discuss terrestrial (land dwelling) invasive species:

  • Phone: 1-866 NO EXOTIC (1-866-663-9684)
  • E-mail: depp@dnr.IN.gov

Discuss aquatic (water dwelling) invasive species:

  • Phone: 317-234-3883
  • E-mail: ais@dnr.IN.gov
Indiana DNR Invasive Species Infromation Report an Invasive Species

List of Invasive Fauna in Indiana

The following dropdowns are a current list of invasive species in Indiana. Additional information about these species can be found at the sidebar links to the Indiana DNR site.

This is an updated list, more information about these species. Per the Indiana DNR:

" The Exotic Fish Rule (312 IAC 9-6-7) designates 13 species or families of invasive fish as prohibited species. This rule makes it illegal to import, possess, propagate, buy, sell, barter, trade, transfer, loan, or release into public or private waters any of the following fish. An individual who takes possession of a fish listed below is not in violation if the fish is killed immediately upon capture. A number of these species or families are federally regulated as well."

Feral hogs, also known as wild pigs, are regulated under 312 IAC 9-3-18.6. This rule makes it illegal to import, possess, sell, transport, barter, trade, or release wild pigs in Indiana. Mute swans are regulated under 312 IAC 9-4-2.5. Individuals may not possess or sell mute swans unless they are pinioned before six weeks of age, making them incapable of flight. They are not to be released into the wild and must be held in an enclosure that prevents their escape into the wild.