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Keeping Exotic Animals out of the Everglades

Florida airboat rides

Invasive species of plants and animals have plagued the Everglades and Florida airboat rides for years, and have taken a toll on the habitat of native species and their food sources. Many exotic animals get released into the wild by pet owners, adding to the already prevalent issue. Exotic pet owners may be unable or unwilling to care for them any longer, resulting in many of these species being released, but this can have a negative impact on the environment.

Exotic Pet Amnesty Day is an event that helps owners find homes for their exotic pets rather than releasing them into the wild, and is also an opportunity for those looking for a special exotic pet of their own. Invasive and exotic species invade the natural habitat of natives while competing for resources that our native species would otherwise utilize. Those who wanted to take home an exotic pet had preregistered and had experience with exotic pets in the past and were able to choose a pet of their own.

There was a drawing that determined who would choose their pet first, and in the end, every pet was taken, except for one unidentified lizard. Pets included a monitor lizard, hedgehog, burmese python, iguana, tortoise and more. This animal matching service helps control exotic species throughout the Everglades and also provides homes for them without euthanization. The event took place in Davie, FL, and there will be another upcoming event in Jacksonville, FL on November 3rd.

Visit Wild Florida and our Florida airboat rides to catch a glimpse of the native Florida animals that call our swamp home. For more information on our Florida airboat rides, call us at 407-901-2563 and don’t miss out on this unique Orlando eco-tour!