A Frightening New Invasive Species Is Threatening The Everglades
We know about pythons in the Everglades, but now there is a frightening new invasive species that is threatening the ecosystem here in South Florda.
Ever since I was a kid I’ve been scared to death of snakes. As I’ve gotten older that fear hasn’t gotten any better. I knew when I moved to Fort Myers that my chances of seeing a snake in the wild would be higher than when I lived in Illinois, and thankfully I’ve only seen a few. All in Estero actually at Koreshan State Park and another couple at my office. They were relatively small, but that doesn’t mean my heart didn’t skip a beat.
We know that pythons have been threatening the Everglades for years. They’re such a problem that every year there’s the annual “Python Challenge” to help take as many out during a specific time frame as possible. In fact, it just wrapped up with huge success. Props to those to head out to hunt, because lord knows I wouldn’t even get close.
Now, it’s not just pythons as the only invasive species in the Everglades we have to worry about.
The Green Anaconda is one of the world’s largest snakes. They can reach lengths of up to 20 feet and weigh several hundred pounds. And now they’ve made their way into the Everglades as well. NBC2 reports that there have been sightings since 2000, but they’re continuing to be seen more regularly. Much like a lot of invasive species, it’s believed that Green Anacondas found in the Everglades began as pets whose owners released them into the wild.
With the population growing steadily, it has biologist and conservationists concerned. The introduction of the Green Anaconda into the Everglades is a serious concern for the native wildlife. Being top predators, anacondas have no natural predators in this new environment and primarily feed on aquatic animals such as fish, birds, turtles and mammals.
If you plan on heading out to explore the Glades, just another thing to keep an eye out for!
These Are The 9 Most Dangerous Animals Lurking In The Florida Everglades
American Alligator
The American alligator can be seen in massive numbers. You’ll see at least 5-10 sunbathing on any given day, as you drive across Alligator Alley.
American Alligator in Everglades National Park
Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake
This snake is the one most venomous snakes in the state, and actually in the world. It is also known as the largest rattlesnake.
Eastern diamondback rattlesnake from Big Cypress National Preserve (adjacent to Everglades National Park), Florida
Florida Panther
The Florida Panther is a beautiful creature and is on the endangered species list. As you’ll see below, they stalk. These creatures are not seen too often.
Stalking behavior of Florida Panther in Florida. Lurking in bushes.
Brown Recluse Spider
A brown recluse spider is most common in warmer climates. It is one of the most poisonous spiders in the Everglades.
A macro shot of a Brown recluse spider
American Crocodile
Yes, crocodile. American crocodiles are found in Florida. It’s not an alligator.
American Crocodile swimming in water in South Florida, near Everglades National Park
Florida Black Bear
We see these furry guys walking around neighborhoods in Estero quite often. With new construction, they’re forced out of their habitats. But, they are not safe to approach. They will defend themselves.
Florida Black Bear in suburban neighborhood
Florida Cottonmouth
The cottonmouth can be confused with other water snakes. Take extreme caution. These snakes are venomous with a mortality rate of 17%.
Florida Cottonmouth or water moccasin snake, close up in the Everglades
Burmese Python
These snakes are commonly seen being hunted. Reason is, they’re becoming an extremely invasive species across the state. They are constrictors and are non venomous.
Burmese python or Python bivittatus snake swims in the water in a marsh in the Florida Everglades.
Alligator Snapping Turtle
Let’s just say this one looks the scariest to me! I never thought I would be scared of a turtle. They are much more aggressive on land than they are in the water.
Alligator snapping turtle.
