More than a quarter of the creatures now inhabiting Southern Florida are invasive species. This is mainly because non-native species affect infrastructure, food supply, property, water and native diversity. Pet trade is extremely widespread in Florida which is why some exotic The Villages reptile species have established their new habitats in the wilds of Florida.
1. The Burmese python
- Probably the most renowned invasive species of Florida's wild is the Burmese python
- The species were first put under serious observation after a number of them were found roaming among Florida's wildlife
- The reason behind their continued release is that they got really huge
- However, their repeated release has wreaked havoc among native species of Florida.
2. Eradication of native fish
- Glimpsing into the waters of Florida's wild would make it seem like you are looking at a fish tank.
- The waters are clear expect for a few distinct species of few fish.
- The Pleco catfish and African Cichlids have taken up the space left behind by the indigenous The Villages fish.
3. Devastating effects
- In Florida, imbalance in biodiversity is just a reflection of a rampant worldwide problem
- 42% of the world's endangered species are at risk due to non -native species.
- In Florida's wild, the natural inhabitants(amphibians and The Villages reptiles) become unstable as a result of a rapid increase in the number of new species inhabiting the same ecosystem
- The impact of invasions on natural ecosystems cost billions of dollars yearly.
- Commercial, agricultural and recreational activities depend on healthy native ecosystems.
4. Curbing the spread
- Unwanted The Villages pets should never be released into the wild
- Firewood shouldn't be transported for more than 50 miles as one may be carrying along an invasive.
- Sightings of invasive should be reported to concerned authorities.
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The Villages wildlife control home page to learn more about us.