Rodents The Size Of Dogs Taking Up Residence In Florida
- 8 years ago
Capybaras are the latest creatures to establish a major presence in Florida.
Over the years, Florida has become home to numerous new animal residents, such as Burmese pythons, lionfish, and giant snails.
The latest creature to establish a major presence in the state is significantly cuter, but may cause ecosystem-related issues nonetheless.
Called capybaras, the rodents can grow as large as a sizable dog, tipping the scales at roughly 100 pounds.
According to Orlando Sentinel, they are also known to be rather friendly sorts, though they do have a tendency to bite if people get too snuggly with them.
Sighting reports in the northern part of the state began decades ago, and in the years since, populations appear to have expanded.
Officials are now concerned that a new ‘invasive species’ incident is brewing.
How the animals, which are native to South America, wound up in the state remains unknown, according to Motherboard.
Over the years, Florida has become home to numerous new animal residents, such as Burmese pythons, lionfish, and giant snails.
The latest creature to establish a major presence in the state is significantly cuter, but may cause ecosystem-related issues nonetheless.
Called capybaras, the rodents can grow as large as a sizable dog, tipping the scales at roughly 100 pounds.
According to Orlando Sentinel, they are also known to be rather friendly sorts, though they do have a tendency to bite if people get too snuggly with them.
Sighting reports in the northern part of the state began decades ago, and in the years since, populations appear to have expanded.
Officials are now concerned that a new ‘invasive species’ incident is brewing.
How the animals, which are native to South America, wound up in the state remains unknown, according to Motherboard.