Capybaras on the loose
TROPICAL ECOLOGY
Recently, news reported that a breeding population of capybaras was spotted in Florida with around 50 of them on the loose. It is suspected that this breeding population is related to the escape of 5 capybaras from a wildlife facility near Gainesville in 1995.
Although they are not - yet an invasive species, zoologists believe that there is a potential for them to shift from exotic to invasive species in Florida. The distinction between an invasive and a nonnative exotic organism is if the organism cause harm to the environment, economy, or human health. Currently, the population in Florida does not pose any threat to the environment and human.
However, capybaras have been occasionally considered as pests by farmers because they feed on crops or fruits such as melons and squashes and is viewed as a competitor with domestic livestock that feed on grass. Hence, mitigation is still needed to ensure that the capybaras do not overpopulate and outcompete native animals.
It's the end. Thank you !
My blog has finally come to an end. Thank you for joining me on this journey of exploring these adorable creatures. I hope you have enjoyed the fun facts and content I prepared. See you in my next blog!
Here is a song I prepared as a finale for my blog. Enjoy!
WOAH, INVASIVE!! It's interesting to know that capybaras are considerd as pest by farmers, BUT CAN WE consider them as pets? HEHE BOI
~Brendan Sim