Invaders in the Glades | Lotty & Finn Science Spotlight
Invaders in the Glades: Lotty & Finn Discover the Truth About Invasive Species
Something strange is happening in Florida’s wetlands — and Lotty, Finn, and their glowing guide Glowria have been investigating. The “Forever Glades,” home to incredible creatures and fragile ecosystems, are under threat from an unexpected visitor: the Burmese python.
Before diving into this mysterious invader, let’s rewind and look at how one new species can turn a thriving habitat upside down.
🌿 What Happens When a Newcomer Takes Over
Not every animal introduced to a new environment becomes a problem. But sometimes, when humans bring species to new places — intentionally or accidentally — they can cause big trouble.
In Florida’s case, people once imported Burmese pythons as exotic pets.
When some were released or escaped (especially after the destruction caused by Hurricane Andrew in 1992), the pythons found themselves in the perfect place to thrive — the warm, swampy wetlands of the Everglades.
With no natural predators and plenty of prey, these enormous snakes began multiplying fast.
Finn says: “They can reach more than 15 feet long — that’s longer than the Glimmerpod!”
Lotty adds: “And with no one to keep them in check, they eat… well, just about everything.”
Glowria sighs: “It’s the classic case of a guest who moves in, eats all the snacks, and never leaves.”
💡 Science Spotlight: What Is an Invasive Species?
An invasive species is a plant or animal that moves (or is moved) into a place where it doesn’t naturally belong — and then causes harm to the local environment, wildlife, or even people.
They often:
Compete with native animals for food or space
Have no natural predators in their new home
Reproduce quickly, spreading across large areas
In the case of the Burmese python, the Everglades offered a paradise of prey and protection — creating one of the most famous invasive-species stories in the world.
Lotty explains: “Back home in Mexico, axolotls face something similar! Invasive fish eat our eggs and food. So we really understand how dangerous it can be when nature’s balance breaks.”
🐾 The Domino Effect in the Everglades
Scientists noticed something alarming: as python numbers went up, the number of native mammals went way down.
Research shows that populations of raccoons, rabbits, and opossums have dropped by more than 85% in areas where pythons are established.
Even larger animals like deer, wading birds, and small alligators have fallen victim to these powerful predators.
Glowria remarks: “When one species takes too much, it isn’t just greedy — it changes the rules for everyone else.”
Without enough small animals, other predators lose food sources, and the whole ecosystem begins to wobble.
Wetlands depend on balance: frogs control insects, birds spread seeds, and mammals shape the landscape.
When that balance disappears, everything from water quality to plant growth is affected.
🧩 Why the Problem’s So Hard to Solve
Florida’s scientists, wildlife rangers, and volunteers have been working for years to control python numbers. Some methods include:
Trained detection dogs to sniff out snakes
“Scout snakes” with radio trackers to find nests
Public removal programs like the annual Florida Python Challenge
Strict bans on importing or owning Burmese pythons as pets
Even with these efforts, thousands of pythons still slither through the wetlands. Because they blend in so well with their surroundings and can lay up to 100 eggs at a time, complete eradication is nearly impossible.
Finn: “So even the experts can’t catch them all?”
Glowria: “Correct — but every snake removed helps. It’s not about perfection; it’s about progress.”
🌎 Lessons for Explorers Everywhere
The Burmese python invasion is more than a Florida problem — it’s a lesson for all of us about how delicate ecosystems can be.
Lotty and Finn often remind readers that axolotls are endangered partly because of invasive fish in their native lakes. When non-native species enter a fragile environment, they can wipe out food sources, destroy breeding grounds, and change the entire food web.
Lotty: “It’s like pulling one string from a spider web — everything shakes.”
Glowria: “And the bigger the creature, the bigger the shake.”
🪶 How We Can Help
You don’t have to be a scientist to make a difference!
Learn about local plants and animals before introducing anything new to your area.
Never release exotic pets into the wild.
Support organizations that restore and protect natural habitats.
Teach others — especially kids — how connected all species really are.
Finn: “Even small acts can help the planet find its balance again.”
Lotty: “Like sharing what you learn — that’s the explorer’s way!”
🐍✨ Next in the Series:
Part 2 — “The Giant That Shouldn’t Be Here”
Lotty, Finn, and Glowria will take us deeper into the story of the Burmese python — where it came from, how it spread, and what scientists are doing to protect the Everglades.
📚 Keep Exploring!
If this topic sparks your imagination, check out our book Year of the Snake and create your own story about creatures, curiosity, and balance in nature.
Don’t forget to follow or subscribe so you don’t miss the next Forever Glades blog in our Invasive Species Series — perfect for #homeschool and #scienceforkids learning adventures!
PS: Lotty & Finn live in our imagination, where adventures are full of curiosity and fun! If you’re caring for real axolotls, always check with experts for proper guidance. Curious to dive deeper? Visit our Explorer Resources page for trusted sources and links.
