Invasive exotic species

WHAT ARE THEY?

They are species introduced by mankind outside of their natural area of distribution, establishing themselves in nature or in cities and causing serious problems.

HOW DO THEY AFFECT US?

It is the second largest cause of loss of biodiversity after habitat destruction. It may lead to the disappearance of other indigenous species due to predation or foraging, because of displacement due to competition, or because they transfer illnesses which are fatal to native species. Some exotic species may alter habitats and ecosystems.

WHERE DO THEY COME FROM?

Directly: By the abandonment of exotic pets. Indirectly: Through the transport of goods, the movement of land for works and the escape of animals.

REMEMBER – IF YOU HAVE OR WISH TO ACQUIRE AN EXOTIC PET:

-Do so only in AUTHORISED ESTABLISHMENTS

-BE INFORMED: how long will it live, how much will it grow, what are its needs, etc.

-IF YOU CAN NO LONGER KEEP IT, never release it into the wild. Visit a recuperation centre or deliver it to the competent authorities.

COATI (NASUA NASUA)

The coati was introduced to Spain mainly as a PET. When realising that these pets had difficulties living in enclosed spaces and grew larger than expected, their owners released them into the wild. In other cases they escaped due to poor handling. The coati is an animal which quickly adapts to different natural and urban habitats, affecting the biodiversity of their surroundings.

Legislation prohibits the purchase, sale and trend of invasive exotic species.