Invasion Of The Exotics

Exotics -- nonnative plants and animals -- have found Florida's subtropical setting nearly perfect, and are flourishing quickly.

1 minute read

August 19, 2003, 7:00 AM PDT

By Chris Steins @planetizen


"In the Miami area, at least 40 nonnative species of reptiles and amphibians can be found, often feasting on native species and reducing their numbers, said Josiah Townsend, a herpetologist from the Florida Museum of Natural History in Gainesville. Among the intruders, iguanas are some of the most successful. A female, on average, lays 50 papery-skinned eggs at a time, and may breed twice a year. With no natural predators to keep their numbers in check, the reptiles appear to be thriving."

Thanks to Laura Kranz

Monday, August 18, 2003 in The Los Angeles Times

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