South Florida’s Newest Invaders: The Pest Threats Homeowners Need to Watch in 2024
South Florida’s year-round warm climate and subtropical environment continue to make it a hotspot for invasive species, with new threats emerging that pose serious risks to both native ecosystems and homeowners. According to researchers, “South Florida has more non-natives than any other continental region in the world,” making vigilance against emerging pest threats more critical than ever in 2024.
Giant African Land Snails: A Persistent Threat
One of the most concerning invasive species making headlines in 2024 is the Giant African Land Snail. These invasive mollusks previously plagued South Florida for a decade and though eradicated in 2021, these snails, which can grow to eight inches long and five inches wide, have been reappearing. After one of the large brown snails was spotted earlier this month north of Miami, the state has declared a quarantine and treatment area over a few square miles in the Broward County city of Miramar. Last summer, a master gardener in Pasco County spotted one of the snails in the city of New Port Richey, leading to a quarantine in the area.
The giant African land snail consumes at least 500 different types of plants and can “cause extensive damage to tropical and subtropical environments,” making them particularly destructive to home gardens and landscaping. More concerning for homeowners is the health risk: the giant African land snail can carry rat lungworm, a parasite that causes meningitis in humans and animals.
Argentine Black and White Tegus: Expanding Their Range
The Argentine black and white tegu continues to establish itself across South Florida in 2024. Recently spotted in Lee County through the FWC’s invasive species hotline, the lizard also has migrated north to areas of southeastern Georgia. The Argentine black and white tegu is considered invasive to Florida, meaning the lizard does not belong in its environment.
For its diet, the tegu is an omnivore, meaning they eat fruits, eggs, insects, small animals and rodents. The lizard also are egg eaters, having been documented to consume American alligator, ground nesting bird, and gopher tortoise eggs in Florida. Moreover, The tegu has been known to disrupt nesting wildlife of American crocodiles and sea turtles. For homeowners, pet owners also should be aware as the lizard has reportedly consumed pet food left outdoors.
Cane Toads: A Year-Round Concern
Cane toads remain a significant threat to South Florida residents and their pets in 2024. The non-native, invasive amphibian emerges in early spring months in Southwest and Central Florida. They are found in greater densities in human-modified habitats and are common in yards.
The skin-gland secretions of cane toads (called bufotoxin) are highly toxic and can sicken or even kill animals that bite or feed on them, including native animals and domestic pets. This makes them particularly dangerous for curious dogs and cats that might encounter them in residential areas.
Emerging Threats on the Horizon
Research conducted in 2023 identified several potential new invaders that could establish themselves in Florida. Based on these scoring parameters, some of the most likely invaders were determined to be alewife, zebra mussel, crab-eating macaque and red swamp crayfish. While the spotted lanternfly hasn’t yet been confirmed in Florida, the colorful but invasive and destructive insect is native to China, India, and Vietnam, and was accidentally introduced into Pennsylvania in 2014. It has since been confirmed in eleven states and often spreads by the movement of infested material or items containing spotted lanternfly egg masses.
The Importance of Professional Pest Management
With South Florida’s unique challenges regarding invasive species, having a reliable local pest control partner is essential. ProControl Services has been serving the Treasure Coast since 2006, providing residents and businesses with dependable solutions for both traditional and emerging pest threats. Their expertise in pest control Port St. Lucie and surrounding areas makes them well-positioned to help homeowners deal with these evolving challenges.
Located in Port St. Lucie, ProControl Services understands the specific pest pressures facing South Florida residents. At ProControl Management Services they pride themselves in providing fast, affordable and reliable pest control services. Since 2006 they have been providing Treasure Coast residents and local businesses with dependable pest control solutions. Their goal is to keep your home and business pest free.
What Homeowners Can Do
Prevention and early detection are key to managing invasive species threats. Homeowners should regularly inspect their properties for signs of these invasive pests and report any sightings to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. If you think you’ve found an invasive species, report it to FWC by calling 1-888-IveGot1, online at www.eddmaps.org or with the IveGot1 smartphone app.
For Giant African Land Snails specifically, report sightings by calling the FDACS hotline at 1-888-397-1517. Wear gloves or other protective material when handling a giant African land snail!
As South Florida continues to face new invasive species challenges in 2024, working with experienced local pest control professionals becomes increasingly important. ProControl Services offers peace of mind knowing that they are licensed, fully insured and stand behind all their products and service offered. Their commitment to eco-friendly solutions and comprehensive pest management makes them an ideal partner for homeowners looking to protect their properties from both established and emerging pest threats.
The battle against invasive species in South Florida requires vigilance, prompt action, and professional expertise. By staying informed about these emerging threats and working with qualified pest control professionals, homeowners can better protect their properties, families, and pets from the growing challenges posed by invasive species in 2024 and beyond.