Loss Of Native Species

What Have We Done!

First, it was the South American Fire Ant. This painful insect was spread by mankind as we traveled, and worked its way through Central America, Mexico, Texas, and finally Florida!

Hitchhiking insects are only part of the problem. Man's desire for exotic pets has upset the balance of nature, and created competition for our native species when these exotic pets escape or are released because they've outgrown their welcome.

This picture, taken in the Florida Everglades, shows a large python which exploded while trying to swallow a 12-foot alligator!!! The alligator WAS the top of the food chain in the Everglades. It is now estimated that there are about 30,000 pythons in Florida and they have spread from the Keys to Martin County.

It Gets Worse!

Not only has man directly upset the balance of nature by importing exotic species of pets, we have now altered their DNA with the free use of nuclear energy and the improper disposal of radioactive waste. Species that could never cross-breed before are now producing offspring that redefine our classifications.

For example, here are a few photos taken of the types of birds that visit my bird feeder:

Even the frogs in our pond seemed to have changed. They seem more aggressive! Maybe I'm using too many lawn chemicals.

And the squirrels!!!!!!!!!

I don't know if I should continue to feed them seeds & nuts or switch to raw meats!

And my neighbor's dogs! Two doors down, the people have several dogs and an unknown number of chickens. I hear the rooster almost every morning. A recent walk down the street revealed that perhaps Palm Beach County has done too much spraying for mosquitos!!!

Even Lion Country Safari seems to be having a little trouble!

Let's hope that the president's Stimulus Package includes money to clean up the environment and restore the balance of nature to our national parks.

After all, it's still early in the year -- it IS only April 1st!!!!!