Indicator Species Project
Indicator species are plants or animals that, through their presence, absence or abundance, reflect the overall health of their environment. They act as an early warning system, as they are often the first to be affected by pollution or changes in their habitat. If an indicator species thrives, there is a good chance other species are thriving too. Similarly, if they decline, it is a strong indication that other species are also declining.
Since indicator species are so vital, Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) has decided to focus on these species as part of our biodiversity conservation efforts. We partner with Tandem Global (formerly Wildlife Habitat Council and World Environment Center) on conservation programs at many of our largest sites, and Tandem developed a tool to help us identify indicator species and develop roadmaps for habitat enhancement.
So far, 18 sites have selected an indicator species and are in various stages of completing their habitat development projects. Those whose habitat projects are complete are monitoring their indicator species impact.
TABC, our plant in Long Beach, California, chose Anna’s Hummingbird as its indicator species. This hummingbird resides along the West Coast and feeds on both floral nectar and insects. They are adapted to urban environments and reflect the overall abundance of food sources for a variety of species. To attract this pollinator, native pollinator plants have been installed in several areas around the property. To help inspire curiosity and conversation about this species, team members who take a picture or record video of an Anna’s Hummingbird receive a lapel pin.
TMMTX, our assembly plant in San Antonio, Texas, chose the Loggerhead Shrike as its indicator species. This predatory songbird has a large head in proportion to its body size and hunts from high perches, such as fenceposts and utility poles. This species signals healthy, functional grasslands and is highly sensitive to pesticide use and habitat changes. Grassland restoration at TMMTX has resulted in Loggerhead Shrike sightings. Two males were banded with the help of Texas Parks & Wildlife, which allows the birds’ movements to be tracked.
