Burmese pythons are native to Southeast Asia, so when one showed up dead along the side of a Florida highway in 1979, scientists wondered where it came from. No one knew the snakes had launched a full-scale invasion. Pet pythons that escaped or were released by their owners started breeding in the wild, and these enormous predators began eating every animal in their path. Today a group of scientists at the Conservancy of Southwest Florida is tracking Burmese pythons to find ways to stop their spread. Page Plus links lead to video clips and photos of the scientists working in the field. Delve into the science of pythons and their role as invasive predators.
Authorâs note. âInvasive Species Most Wanted List.â Time line. Glossary. Source notes. Bibliography. Further reading. Index. Full-color photographs.
For Grades 5-8 You'll love our NM+ Category which offers 14 more intriguing nonfiction selections for middle school readers. Readers with a thirst for factual knowledge will look forward to these books arriving each month.