By Amber Prinkey
Next week is National Invasive Species Awareness Week and here in Florida we have over 500 of them. An invasive species is one that doesn’t belong AND causes problems for our native species. It’s important to remember that every animal has its place but when we start adding animals that don’t belong, it upsets the natural balance of our ecosystems. Invasive animals take resources from our native species such as the Burmese Python eating many of the small mammals that alligators and panthers need in the Everglades. What can we do? First, don’t release your unwanted pets into the wild. Second, report any sightings of invasive species to FWC at 1-888-Ivegot1 or on the mobile app so scientists can monitor them. Third, visit nature centers like SNC that help to educate the public and rescue the native species that need our help.
Curious about where these invasive animals have been spotted? Go to https://www.eddmaps.org/distribution/.
#NISAW
#invasivespecies
Adorable but invasive – European Starling