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Encore: Invasive Species Threaten Native Wildlife and Pets

BRUNO HALPERN / WGCU

A recent study by scientists with the University of Florida and the U.S. Geological Survey found that Burmese pythons may be foraging on wading bird nesting rookeries in the Florida Everglades. The research is published in PLOS One. We're joined by the study’s lead author, Sophie Orzechowski, who performed this research as part of her recently completed master’s degree in the Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation at the University of Florida.

Plus, cane toads are invasive species brought to the U.S. in an effort to protect sugar cane fields from pests. Now they present danger to pets and local wildlife. We'll talk with Dr. Steve A. Johnson, he is associate professor and undergraduate program coordinator at the University of Florida’s Department of Wildlife Ecology & Conservation to learn about the dangers of cane toads and ways to protect your pets.