Ecosystem in Peril: Burmese Pythons Decimate Native Wildlife, Fuel Rat Invasion

Burmese pythons in the Everglades have a significant ecological effect on rat populations.

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Pythons have eliminated native mammals like bobcats and foxes, while cotton rats remain relatively untouched.

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A recent study at the University of Florida examined the impact of pythons on cotton rats in high and low python population areas.

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The study found that pythons killed six tagged cotton rats in high python population areas, but overall rat death rates were similar in both areas.

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Pervasive pythons have led to a shift in dominance, with cotton rats becoming dominant and affecting the ecosystem.

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The decline of larger mammals disrupts crucial ecological processes like nutrient cycling and scavenging.

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Cotton rats harbor viruses, including EVEV and hantaviruses, posing a risk to humans.

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Managing python populations and addressing resulting ecological imbalances are vital for the Everglades' health and stability.

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