Invasive populations of fish, reptiles, birds, and more have become established from escaped or intentional releases of exotic pets.
Some examples of this include intentional releases of red-eared sliders in the western US, when they are only native to the eastern US. They compete with native species for resources and habitat and can transmit diseases/parasites. Goldfish eat many aquatic animals and can foul pond water with waste and by stirring up the substrate. Monk parakeets have been released or escaped from captivity in several US states and have established populations, competeing for habitat and resources with native species.
Prevent exotic pets from establishing and negatively impacting our environment by securing pets and their enclosures to prevent escape and responsibly rehoming them if you can no longer care for them.
Research exotic pet amnesty programs and exotic pet shelters in your state to rehome your exotic pets responsibly! The Don't Let It Loose program has resources by state to help rehome exotic pets.
Exotic pets released into an environment they are not native to may cause them stress and suffering from unsuitable habitat, predator pressure, parasites and diseases, inability to find food, etc. Additionally, they may negatively impact the environment by fouling habitat, competing for food and other resources, and introducing new diseases.
- Pathways