Several invasive species have turned up in the area around West Palm Beach, and locals are asked to lend a hand in helping to bring them under control.
Both Asian and Nile monitor lizards have been found in the vicinity, and these can cause problems in the local ecosystem. They tend to prey on native birds, reptiles, and amphibiansk and also their eggs. They create further problems by competing with them for living space and other resources.
Kenan Harkin, who volunteers with the Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, noted that they likely originated as pets that were released in the wild.
The Fish & Wildlife Commission (FWC) is asking anyone who spots one of the monitor lizards to avoid approaching it. Instead, they should take a photo of it and record where it was seen. They can then pass this information along to the FWC, which will address the issue. In situation such as this, Flyers can be placed throughout the community that have photos of the reptiles along with information about who to call should they spot one.
Carollyn Parrish, who is the Florida FWC’s public information coordinator, pointed out that while the lizards in question do not tend to be aggressive, they can and will defend themselves should they feel threatened. They will bite, and have strong jaws and sharp teeth.
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