5 invasive species now in retreat

Invasive species are ones that don't naturally occur in an area and may have detrimental effects.  Here are some eradication success stories.

Sources: Global Invasive Species Database, International Union for Conservation of Nature, National Cotton Council, US Dept. of Agriculture

U.S. Department of Agriculture/AP/File
A cotton boll weevil is shown in this undated U.S. Department of Agriculture photo. The tiny pest that has caused billions of dollars in damage to cotton fields nationwide has nearly been eradicated.

1. Rinderpest virus

Described by the Global Invasive Species Database as a micro-organism, rinderpest had decimated cattle, buffalo, yak, and other livestock. The virus was declared eradicated by United Nations researchers in October, 2010, after a 23-year battle.

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