Nile Monitor Invasion
An interest in exotic invasive species in South Florida has been coming up alot in the news and there have been a couple of articles in South Florida newspapers regarding detrimental effects on Florida ecosystems regarding invasive exotics. One particuliar instance has been recorded on Sanibel Island on the west coast of Florida. The intruder is the Nile Monitor.
The concern is that this lizard, with it's voracious appetite, is going to take a bite out of the bird populations on the island. Not only will Nile monitors attack and kill adult or small birds but it is also known for eating eggs. The Nile monitor, which is originally from Africa, appears to be adapting to its new coastal home very well. It's ability to dive and remain submerged in canals and water systems for up to an hour is no doubt hindering the eradication process.
But not only are these creatures found seclusively on Sanibel Island, the photo above was taken in 1995, and the handsome guy on the right is me. This Nile monitor was found wandering in a field in Hollywood, Fl.
But not only are these creatures found seclusively on Sanibel Island, the photo above was taken in 1995, and the handsome guy on the right is me. This Nile monitor was found wandering in a field in Hollywood, Fl.
