Monroe County

Jenna Cole, Melissa A. Miller, Paul Evans, Rosemarie Moore, and Frank J. Mazzotti

Non-native species are animals and plants living outside of their native ranges as a result of human activity. The specific introduction of a species to an area can occur intentionally or unintentionally. A few introduced non-native species will become established (breed) and can become invasive species capable of harming ecosystems, economies, or human health and safety. The establishment of invasive species can follow a trend known as the “invasion curve.” The longer invasive species remain in an area, the more severe their impact, the higher the chance for their distribution, and the greater the expense to manage them. Invasive species like the Burmese python and the lionfish have already harmed Florida Keys ecosystems. The Keys are particularly susceptible to invasion because of their tropical climate, island geography, and abundance of the disturbed habitats that help invasive species establish and spread. Early detection of new species is vital to saving Keys native species.

Brandon McDonald, Marcus Lashley, Michael Cove, and Carolina Baruzzi

This publication is part of the Wildlife of Florida fact sheet series, created to provide the public with a quick and accurate introduction to Florida’s wildlife, including both native and invasive species. We hope these fact sheets inspire you to learn more about one of Florida’s rarest mammals, the Key Largo woodrat, as well as to investigate the other wildlife around your community and understand the amazing biodiversity in the state of Florida.