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The best way to help prevent new
introductions of exotic species into Florida is to be a responsible
pet owner. Many pets are deceptively small at the time of purchase,
and people may not be prepared to care for them when they grow to
their full adult size. Often people move and feel that taking their
pet with them is too much of a hassle or they become bored with
their pets. It may seem kind to release a pet into the wild, thus
setting it free, but this can be detrimental to the animal and the
environment.
Pet owners may not realize that a released pet will more than likely
die without care from its owner. But not all will die, and those
that survive have the potential to become invasive, meaning they can
take over habitats and displace native fish and wildlife species.
Instead of turning pets loose, try to find them a new home. Search
the Internet for clubs or rescue groups that specialize in the same
type of animal as your pet. Some pet shops will allow you to return
the animal; others may accept it as a donation. Wildlife
rehabilitators are another option, or you can try donating the
animal to a museum or nature center. Your local humane society or animal
shelter may also accept an unwanted nonnative pet. Check out the
Pet
Amnesty Day web page to find out where and when the next event
will be held. Unwanted exotic pets are accepted at these events free
of charge with no questions asked.
Before you buy a nonnative pet, take the time to learn how large
the animal will grow, how long it will live, and how much care it will require.
Ask the pet store for an animal care sheet. Be prepared to make a long-term commitment to
your pet.
There are other ways you can help as well.
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Check boat trailers, boat
hulls and propellers.
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Rinse and remove aquatic plants or
invertebrate hitchhikers such as snails.
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Don't dump aquarium
contents in lakes, channels or other water bodies.
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Replace invasive
and other nonnative plants in your yard with native species.
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Make sure produce bought and
delivered through the mail is from reputable companies that have
their shipments inspected.
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Have
houseplants brought into the state inspected for potential pests,
either by another state's agriculture department or at a Florida
Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services inspection
station. This is required by law and violations can be as
high as $5000.
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Check out our links to learn more
about nonnative species.
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