Despite such adaptations and dietary changes of apex predators, invasive species are still winning.For example, in Australia in 2015, the then Endangered Species Commissioner told the national broadcaster “Since European colonization, Australia has lost 29 mammals, 28 of which involve wild predators.”
Florida faces a similar invasion problem because it hosts an ideal combination of subtropical climate, thriving pet trade and multiple ports of entry. southwest florida reserve, that the state has “more established exotic animal species than any other country in the world.” Or, as Dr. Mazzotti said of the Everglades, “I’m preparing to call it the Everglades Invasive Reptile National Park.”
There’s some good news in the Everglades, too. Loggerhead turtles and vulnerable American alligators could benefit, he said, as Burmese pythons feed on medium-sized mammals in the Everglades that feed on reptile eggs.
The impact on crocodiles is less clear. We don’t have data to confirm that yet, but “it feels like alligators are in the line. They are most likely responsible for the predation of more pythons than we believe.” ‘, said Bartszek. “Pythons find habitat in wetlands and areas where there is no permanent body of water not patrolled by crocodiles. We believe and have no doubt that they are here to serve us.”
These are, so far, relatively small victories in the broader effort to combat invasive species. According to Bartoszek, 47 bird species, 24 mammal species and two reptile species have been found in the belly of pythons.
And in the United States, as in Australia, we need to limit such pests, not just alligators and alligators. “Are there clear examples of how a single species can and has benefited from an invasive species?” Dr. Masotti said. “What are the other impacts? I’m not sure.”