As already reported, a representative of an invasive animal species has been recorded and later also captured in Latvia – the raccoon (Procyon lotor). The State Forest Service urges the public to be vigilant and to report immediately any other animal species that are not typical of Latvia's fauna.

Invasive animal species can have a devastating impact on nature, biodiversity and the economy. On arriving in new habitats, invasive species may begin to breed rapidly and spread aggressively, taking over large areas and driving native species out of their habitats. In this way, invasive species can threaten ecosystems and cause harm to both nature and people.

The State Forest Service urges people to report immediately if they observe, or capture on automatic trail cameras, animal species that are invasive or not typical of Latvia's fauna – American mink, fallow deer, mouflon, sika deer, coypu, bobak marmots, golden jackals, raccoon dogs and raccoons. The Service is reminding people that the raccoon and the raccoon dog are two different species.

Sightings of invasive species can be reported by sending an email to the State Forest Service at medibas@vmd.gov.lv or to the Nature Conservation Agency at pasts@daba.gov.lv. Images and the coordinates of the observation site should be attached to the information. Reports will be checked and, if necessary, the possibility of arranging for individuals of these species to be removed from the natural environment will be considered.