An alien panther chameleon has reportedly taken over a neighborhood in Orange County, Florida WKMG News 6. Surprisingly, many residents did not mind the new guests.
However, the lizards attracted more human activity. This is likely from individuals seeking to breed them for the exotic pet trade, a concern understandably shared by homeowners.
What is happening?
According to WKMG News 6, researchers from the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) discovered a “decade-old population of lizards” in a suburban neighborhood. The research team surveyed residents about their impacts.
The news station reported that this species originated in Madagascar and has now established breeding populations in specific local areas. This happens thanks to the accidental or intentional release of animals by breeders or pet owners.
“Chameleons (Chamaeleonidae) are very popular in the pet trade and have been introduced throughout Florida, USA, and their presence often attracts private pet collectors,” the researchers wrote in a study published in the journal “Chameleons.” Journal of Human-Wildlife Interactions.
“We don’t have to worry about this,” explained Lourdes Medeiros, director of public relations at UF/IFAS Communications, in a statement press release Tiger chameleons can cost up to $2,000 each on the exotic pet market. Some of those involved in the wildlife trade try to make easy money through an illegal practice called “cattle ranching.” Ranching occurs when breeders “farm” wild populations to later collect and sell the offspring.
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“When an exotic chameleon crawls into a suburban Florida neighborhood, it brings more than its color-changing magic,” she said. He added. “It can also spark confusion, curiosity, and social chaos.”
Why does the presence of chameleons cause concern?
As the news station reported, the chameleon’s presence has raised concerns among homeowners, but not about the chameleon itself.
“Those who saw people carrying flashlights — especially when combined with a chameleon sighting — expressed greater concern about personal safety, frustration with nocturnal activity and uncertainty about what is really going on,” Medeiros said in the news release.
Diane Sturgeon is a postdoctoral researcher at the UF/IFAS Institute for Invasion Sciences and a co-author of the study. She explained that the potential for social conflict between residents and private collectors was an immediate concern.
In addition to causing general disturbances, chameleons can outcompete native plants and animals for vital resources such as food, water, and shelter. While they may consume unwanted pests, such as insects and small mammals, they can also disrupt food webs and biodiversity if introduced into natural areas.
Florida’s warm, humid climate is an ideal environment for panther chameleons and other invasive species, such as iguanas, to thrive. Their impacts can be significant if the species is not properly controlled. One wildlife rescuer said Fox 35 Orlando Chameleons “reproduce quickly” because females can lay about 40 eggs at a time.
What is being done to manage the species?
The researchers highlighted the need for state agencies to reach out to communities and educate them about the importance of removing invasive species. Public understanding is crucial to preventing conflicts and supporting healthy human-wildlife interactions.
Wildlife officials Encouraging residents to Report invasive species sightingsLike a chameleon. They can report directly to Florida Fish and Wildlife CommissionOr through the agency’s website or smartphone app, to help manage the spread of the chameleon.
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