Just curious, but it seems as if, everyone is of the opinion that the burms, retics, etc. that have become established in the everglades were a result of inept or novice pet owners releasing them into the wild. While this may account for a very small number of these occurences, it seems as if no one has taken into account that South Florida is one of the few Hubs ( and not sure of the numbers but would be willing to bet that it comprises the majority of the reptiles that enter the US) if you will of importation of reptiles and amphibians for the entire US. Consider the iguana and how its become established. I worked for an importer twenty years ago, and can tell you that sickly, animals that were not "likely" to make it were "tossed" out the back door or into the trash. How much more likely is it that over the years these animals became established in much the same way. Less likely to happen today but a breeding population does not happen overnight. Just food for thought.
-----
Primeval-Beauty
"Finding beauty where other's fear to tread"

[ Show Entire Thread ]