Believe it or not, Florida is one of the worst places in the world in regards to invasive, with the Burmese Python being a big target today. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, there have been at least 400 species of non-native fish in addition to over one thousand exotic plants that have been tracked throughout the state. It is likely that you might even have some exotic plants right in your backyard, and we may even have some at our Orlando airboat tours!
Although some people wonder what the big deal is about plants that are non-native to Florida, or even the United States, exotic wildlife can be a reason for concern for the native species of Florida. Many exotic animals have escaped from their owners or have been released from owners who no longer can or want to care for them.
One of the reasons why non-native species can be a concern is because they don’t have enemies, which allows them to reproduce at unbelievable rates. Native species then must compete for resources with non-native species, which could end up with the exotic species overrunning the rest.
Some exotic species that have been an issue are geckos, iguanas, Nile monitors, and a variety of other lizards that have become stronger and more aggressive than our native species. Not only do exotic plants and animals compete with other animals for resources, but they also present the threat of environmental damage and disease.
Visit Wild Florida and our Orlando airboat tours to catch a glimpse of the native Florida animals that call our swamp home. For more information on an Orlando airboat tour, call us at 407-901-2563 and don’t miss out on this unique Orlando eco-tour!
