There are reports that several Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) have been captured in the wilds of Florida (www.theguardian,com/us-news/2016/may/21/african-nile-crocodiles-captured-florida). Unlike the native alligators, these faster-growing (up to 5.5 m) reptiles, are people-eaters (they may thrive also on the native alligators, birds, mammals and companion animals of that state). Nobody is entirely sure how they got to the Florida swamps (they do not appear to be genetically linked to members of this species in US zoos) but scientists believe that they might be former 'pet' animals that proved too large and voracious for their owners. Florida, apparently, has the highest proportion of introduced species in the US. Be careful what you let out!
This blog may help people explore some of the 'hidden' issues involved in certain media treatments of environmental and scientific issues. Using personal digital images, it's also intended to emphasise seasonal (and other) changes in natural history of the Swansea (South Wales) area. The material should help participants in field-based modules and people generally interested in the natural world. The views are wholly those of the author.
Sunday 22 May 2016
Bite to Eat?
There are reports that several Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) have been captured in the wilds of Florida (www.theguardian,com/us-news/2016/may/21/african-nile-crocodiles-captured-florida). Unlike the native alligators, these faster-growing (up to 5.5 m) reptiles, are people-eaters (they may thrive also on the native alligators, birds, mammals and companion animals of that state). Nobody is entirely sure how they got to the Florida swamps (they do not appear to be genetically linked to members of this species in US zoos) but scientists believe that they might be former 'pet' animals that proved too large and voracious for their owners. Florida, apparently, has the highest proportion of introduced species in the US. Be careful what you let out!
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