Florida’s Invasive Animal Species

Unwelcomed Pests That Aren’t Going Away

Florida is known for its lush landscape and pristine beaches. People flock to Florida every year, all year to experience all Florida has to offer. Clearly, the diverse culture, marshes and swamps, historical treasures, and beautiful beaches draw visitors and make them want to stay. Unfortunately, Florida has some unwelcome guests as well. These are the invasive animal species that are destroying much of what Florida is all about.

The Invasion

Over 500 non-native plant and animal species have been brought into Florida and are messing up the delicately balanced ecosystem. You see, each location for an animal was created to sustain that animal’s life and assist in the circle of life surrounding it. So, each plant and animal serves a purpose for the ecosystem in which it lives. Thus, when a new species throws that balance off, the system will not thrive with its original intention.

7 Invasive Animal Species in Florida

The animals listed below are only a few of the species. Sadly, there are aquatic and flora invaders as well. Each one does its fair share of damage, just like the animals listed below.

The Burmese Python is one of the top invasive species in Florida. These constrictors were once pets, then were released due to their enormous growth and adult size. Of Course, living in Florida is an optimal condition for the python as there are no predators, and the warm climate suits it well. However, the pythons are increasing in large numbers and are wreaking havoc on our Florida wildlife. When they prey on deer, our endangered birds, frogs, and native snakes, it upsets the balance of life.

Cats are not usually thought of an invasive, but they indeed are. Outdoor cats and feral cat colonies will take over an area spreading rabies and parasites to start. Cats will eat up to 100 birds per year, placing a huge dent in an area’s bird population.

Cane Toads are another invasive species. These warm-weather toads are dangerous to our pets. Sadly, If a dog bites a cane toad, the toad will release a toxic substance. Furthermore, this secretion can cause seizures in dogs and other animals. Also, cane toads will eat insects, fish, native frogs, and even pet food.

Cuban Tree Frogs have become the bane of homeowners’ existence in some areas. Brought in on cargo ships, these frogs are very loud and can even disturb your evening’s rest. And they eat native frogs and snakes.

Green Iguanas are known to be all over south Florida in numbers. As they make their way further north, these spiny lizards do extensive damage. They are messy, leaving their excrement everywhere, and they will burrow under the foundation of a home or building. In addition, if you have ever encountered a full-grown adult, you will know they get huge. Iguanas can grow to more than 5 feet in length.

Feral Hogs weigh several hundred pounds and are incredibly aggressive. They breed at an alarming rate and root up plants and gardens. Reports say that the wild hogs steal around $800 million in agriculture per year.

Fire Ants will attack anything they encounter on the ground. Baby animals, birds, and sea turtles are in the most danger. The ants will damage crops as well. And, did you know the venom they deliver is as toxic as the venom injected by a cobra?

What You Can Do to Help

There are always things residents of Florida can do to help keep our homes, neighborhoods, and ecosystems free of unwanted pests. Here are a few suggestions to get you on your way in helping with the problem in your area.

1. When you leave Florida for vacation, do not return with fruit, veggies, flowers, nuts, firewood, or soil. All these things can have a non-native pest hiding in them.
2. Try planting only native plants in your region. Remember, the land contains the perfect design for the plants and animals initially located in an area.
3. Most importantly, if you can no longer keep up with a pet, find a rescue that will help remove the pet from your home and safely relocate it. Never release a pet into the wild.

An Invasive Animal Species in Your Yard?

This is the stuff of nightmares. A feral hog, python, or giant iguana will put fear into the hearts of even the toughest. And the danger to our pets is real. Whether you are dealing with a tiny ant or a massive invasive animal species, you can count on World Class Wildlife Removal to assist you in your plight to remove the pest.

Contact World Class Wildlife Removal to report invasive animal species on sight.