Florida is no stranger to invasive species making their unwelcome presence known to locals. Among the undesirable visitors are Nile monitors, which are wreaking havoc in Cape Coral.
What’s happening?
Gulf Coast News reported on the anecdotal experiences of Cape Coral residents in their neighborhoods. These lizards are native to Sub-Saharan Africa, but they’ve made themselves at home in local canals, backyards, and even homes.
“Corner of my eye, I see this huge monster running in my house straight to the back door,” resident Alane Passero recalled. “I’m screaming my head off.”
Not everyone has such a close encounter with them. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission noted they can reach up to about 18 pounds and almost seven feet. However, Gulf Coast News said that their “secretive and timid nature” can keep their presence under wraps…