We often romanticize the rich diversity of species in places like the Amazon or Madagascar, but there’s plenty of biodiversity right here in North America. Hikers and campers can see vibrant ecosystems from the mountains of New England to the desert plains of the Southwest, full of species that don’t have to be exotic to be awe-inspiring. But just like Asia’s tigers and Africa’s elephants, our North American species must be protected if they’re to survive for future generations to appreciate. Below is a list of species that prove local habitats are as worthy of preserving as global ones.
Common prickly ash
The common prickly ash is a part of the citrus family, and it grows further north than any other species in the family. It is remarkable for its role in traditional medicine: the berries as well as the oil extracted from the bark of the tree have been used to treat gastrointestinal problems, joint problems, skin disease and typhoid. It is known as the “toothache tree” because Native Americans traditionally have chewed the bark to alleviate tooth pain. Scientists have also studied it for its potential use as an antifungal. The berries can also be used as a condiment – as a substitute for pepper.
Eastern hemlock
This coniferous tree may not look like anything special, but it has been known to live for more than 800 years. The wood, though soft, is sometimes used in construction and was famously effective as railroad ties. The bark was also used to produce tannin for leather processing. But an aphid-like Asian insect species called the hemlock woolly adelgid, introduced to the US in the early 20th century, is now threatening the eastern hemlock: the insect may be capable of decimating the tree’s population in the southern Appalachian Mountains.
Pussy willow
The pussy willow is so called because of its furry flower clusters, or catkins, the texture of which is reminiscent of a cat’s coat. The emergence of catkins is one of the first signs of spring in the northern US. They are also treasured for their role in various religious and cultural ceremonies: Eastern European Christians carry pussy willows on Palm Sunday, and they are used for decoration during Chinese New Year.
Monarch butterfly
The beloved monarch butterfly has an amazing migratory pattern that spans thousands of miles from Mexico to Canada. But the species is now endangered as a result of the decline of milkweed, which is the only plant on which the monarch will lay its eggs. Milkweed has become scarce as a result of pesticides used on agricultural lands throughout the Midwest. In response, schoolchildren and homeowners across America are planting butterfly “rest stops” along the migration route.
River otter
These playful semiaquatic mammals like to chase and wrestle, and they form tight familial and social bonds. They have traditionally had an expansive range throughout North America, but pollution, urban expansion and trapping have caused them to retreat from much of their former habitat.
Gray wolf
The gray wolf is the largest wolf species, revered for its beauty throughout American history. It has been prominently featured in the myths, legends and stories of various cultures. Its North American population declined dramatically as human populations and agriculture expanded, and in the early 20th century the gray wolf was nearly eliminated from many of its native lands. It has since been famously reintroduced to Yellowstone, starting in 1995.
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