Sunday, January 24, 2010

An Alien Invader...

Last week this alien invader was found on one of our golf courses...not from a different planet, but from a different island...Cuba! This Cuban Tree Frog was named Lou because they are sometimes found in people's toilets! Yuck!

The Cuban Tree Frog is an invasive species in Florida...meaning it is non-native (or alien) and
it's introduction causes economic or environmental harm. They eat native animals, including worms, insects, snakes, lizards, small mammals and even other frogs - including the native Squirrel and Green Tree Frogs. Their skin secretes a toxic mucus that can burn the eyes and trigger an allergic reaction. They can live 5-10years.

Lou was found nearly frozen after the unusually chilly weather we've been having. He died a day later. Please educate yourself about invasive animals and plants in your area so that you can correctly identify them and prevent their spread. http://www.fws.gov/invasives/ is a great place to start.

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