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• Please mute your line if you are not actively speaking • A headset is recommended if using VOIP • If you no longer see the audio options prompt – Select the Join Audio icon on the left of the menu bar at the bottom – Menu bar disappears when not in use CISMA Call Agenda

1:30pm Introductions . Deah Lieurance & Samantha Yuan 1:35pm Technical Presentation . FWC’s Nonnative Wildlife Responder Network – Jenny Novak 1:55pm CISMA Update . Florida CISMAs – Florida Keys –Beth Bergh 2:10pm Shoutouts . NISAW, FLEPPC CISMA Session Topics, FISP Spring Meeting . Polls 2:30pm Adjourn Introducing the New FISP Co‐Chairs

• Sherry Williams – Seminole County Natural Resources Program Coordinator for the Seminole County Greenways and Natural Lands Division – [email protected] • Samantha Yuan – FWC, Invasive Plant Management Section (IPMS) Research and Outreach Manager – [email protected] Technical Presentation

FWC’s Nonnative Wildlife Responder Network Presented by Jenny Novak Photo credit Edward Mercer Edward Photo credit

FWC Nonnative Wildlife Responder Network (NWRN) Jenny Novak Education and Outreach Wildlife Biologist Wildlife Impact Management Section What is the NWRN? Photo credit FWC

The Nonnative Wildlife Responder Network (NWRN) is a group of trained citizens who respond to nonnative wildlife issues across the state. Photo credit Pat Lynch/SFWMD Pat Photo credit Goal of the NWRN

The NWRN will provide a new level of customer service to our stakeholders by allowing us to respond to more calls received through the Exotic Species Hotline.

Photo credit FWC Exotic Species Hotline

The Hotline (888-IveGot1) receives calls about nonnative species observations and requests for exotic pet amnesty. Exotic Species Hotline Calls

• NWRN participants will primarily Birds respond to 17% nonnative calls Mammals 10% • Responders may 57% assess other Aquatics species 12% Amphibians 4% Exotic Species Hotline Calls

2000

1800 1673 1600

1400

1200

1000 874 800 618 600 531 484 400 170 200

0 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019

Call volume is increasing and projections indicate that call volume will continue to increase. FISP/CISMA members-we need you! Photo credit FWC

ECISMA members can make great NWRN volunteers Responder Duties

• Outreach

• Site reconnaissance and species identification

• Live trapping

• Safe capture and removal of constrictors

:Photo credit USGS Outreach

• Assist with canvassing efforts

Photo credit Defenders of Wildlife Reconnaissance and Identification

• Surveil an area with landowner permission

• Determine Photo credit Adam Stern presence of a nonnative species

• Take photos to help confirm ID Live Trapping • Deliver traps

• Show how to set and bait traps

• Release non-target

• Check in with homeowners

• Pick up and transport trapped animals to FWC

Photo credit USGS Safe Capture of Constrictors

• Remove nonnative constrictors

• Transport captured nonnative snakes to FWC

Photo credit FWC Equipment Items that may be provided or loaned: • Volunteer t-shirt

• Gloves FWC Volunteer • Utility trunk

• Snake hook and bags

• Live trap Training • In-person training required for new volunteers

Photo credit FWC

• Will be offered in each

region of the state.

Photo credit FWC How do I sign up?

The Regular Service Volunteer (RSV) Application and RSV Agreement must be completed before you can begin to volunteer. Questions?

Contact the Nonnative Species Outreach and Education Wildlife Biologist:

Jenny Novak [email protected] 305-224-4282

Photo credit FWC October ‐ Shout Outs: Continued

FISP/ Activitiy/Name of CISMA Category Event/Title Date Location SixRivers Workday work day 10/13/2017 Chimney Park Outreach ‐ EDDMapS HalloWeed Escambia County Extension SixRivers Workshop Training 10/17/2017 Office Disney Wilderness Preserve, 2700 Scrub Jay Osceola CISMA 10/19/2017 Osceola Meeting meeting Trail Poinciana. Suncoast Upland Outreach ‐ Habitat Restoration Jonathan Dickinson 10/20/2017 Suncoast Workshop Workshop State Park’s Fire Fest Outreach ‐ event this Saturday Jonathan Dickinson State TC Tabling Oct. 21st 10/21/2017 Park Outreach ‐ EDDMapS HalloWeed Escambia County Extension 10/24/2017 SixRivers Workshop Training Office Outreach ‐ 10/25/2017 Zoom FISP Other October CISMA call Outreach ‐ Cancelled: Wiggins SWFL Tabling Pass Nature Fest, 10/28/2017 Delnor‐Wiggins State Park Etoniah Rosemary Etoniah Creek State Forest Census HalloWeed 390 Holloway Rd 10/31/2017 ECF Workday Event Florahome, FL 32140 Nov‐Jan ‐ Shout Outs

FISP/ Activitiy/Name of CISMA Category Event/Title Date Location CF/Osceola/EC FL Outreach ‐ CISMA Grass/Sedge Wekiwa Springs State Park 10/5/2017 CF Workshop Workshop (Youth Camp). CF/Osceola/EC FL Wekiwa Springs State Park Outreach ‐ CISMA Grass/Sedge 10/5/2017 (Youth Camp). ECF Workshop Workshop Outreach ‐ Postponted: Herbicide Windley Key Fossil Reef 10/6/2017 Geological State Park FKIETF Workshop Workshop Navarre Visitors Center, Outreach ‐ EDDMapS HalloWeed Santa Rosa County 10/10/2017 Extension Office SixRivers Workshop Training Lauderdale Research and Education Center Complex in the FAU Davie West ECISMA Steering 10/11/2017 Building, Room 203 ECISMA Meeting Committee Meeting 10/11/2017 Crystal River State Preserve NC Workday Nature Coast Workday10/12/2017 FKIETF WorkdayCANCELLED:Cancelled: Ludwigia Workday Outreach ‐ ID and Aquatic Grass Heartland Workshop ID workshops 10/13/2017 Circle B Bar Ranch CISMA Update

Florida Keys Invasive Exotic Task Force Presented by – Beth Bergh Florida Keys Invasive Exotic Task Force

Beth Bergh Monroe County Land Steward Co-Chair FKIETF Partners:  U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service  Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission  Florida Park Service  U. S. Navy  Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Corporation of America  Monroe County  Village of Islamorada  City of Marathon  Key West Botanical Garden Goals and Objectives:

 Meetings  EDRR workdays  EDRR updates  FKIETF plant list  Festivals and Events  FWC IPM projects  Partnering goals with exotics management along US 1 corridor  Trainings – Herbicide workshop, Exotic ID, Python  Invasive project AlterNatives project Education and Outreach

 FKIETF invasive plant list

 AlterNatives Guide

 FKIETF invasive animal list

 Iguana Fact Sheet

 Identification Guide FLORIDA KEYS INVASIVE EXOTICS TASK FORCE LIST OF INVASIVE PLANTS OF THE FLORIDA KEYS ‐ 2015

FLEPPC = CATEGORY CLASSIFICATION ON FLORIDA EXOTIC PEST PLAN COUNCIL'S 2015 LIST OF FLORIDA'S MOST INVASIVE SPECIES. (N:north, C:central, S:south, All: Florida wide)

SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME FLEPPC KEYS INVASION PATTERN AND COMMENTS SEEDING ERADICATION RECOMMENDATION

DISPERSAL & SEASON Handpulling always recommended when possible FKIETF CATEGORY I: INVASIVE EXOTICS THAT ARE ALTERING FLORIDA KEYS NATIVE PLANT COMMUNITIES BY DISPLACING NATIVE SPECIES, CHANGING COMMUNITY STRUCTURES OR ECOLOGICAL FUNCTIONS, OR HYBRIDIZING WITH NATIVES

Invasive in wetlands and uplands. Listed as Basal or cut stump with 10%‐30% G4. Listed as a Casuarina spp. Australian pine 1: All noxious weed. wind blown, year round prohibited plant and a noxious weed by FDACS

Invasive on beaches, coastal rock barren, Foliar with 3% G4 in cut grid pattern, cut stump ditches, and swales; any place that is tidally with G3A 50% or Basal with G4 10%. Listed as Colubrina asiatica Asiatic colubrina 1: S influenced. seeds float, year round noxious weed by FDACS

Basal with G4 30% or basal and cut stump with 2: All Forms thick monoculture in disturbed areas. 30% G4, 50‐100% G3A or 1.5% Redeem. Listed as Leucaena leucocephala Lead tree Seeds persist for many years in seedbank nearly year round noxious weed by FDACS

Pervasive in homesteaded hammocks, Key 1: S Deer eat seedlings. Form dense canopy as well Manilkara zapota Sapodilla as dense sapling recruitment fruit year round Basal with 10%‐25% G4

2: All Spreading quickly along US1 and areas of Big wind dispersed during Panicum maximum Guinea grass Pine. summer growing season Foliar with 2% Roundup Pro

Foliar with 5% G4. Can cut at base & apply 2: C,S spreads vegetatively and directly. Manual removal but must be bagged and Large infestations have occurred in hammocks. by seed. Roots can grow removed from site. Listed as a prohibited plant Sansevieria hyacinthoides Bowstring hemp Spreads where dumped. from leaves and as a noxious weed by FDACS

Seeds float and are easily dispersed to Basal with 10% G4 or stump with 50% G3A. Listed Scaevolea taccada Beach naupaka 1: C,S mangrove and coastal rock barren habitats. tides/birds/animals, nearly as noxious weed by FDACS Listed as noxious weed in 2007. year round Invasive in wetlands and uplands. Likes animals, late winter into Basal with 10%‐15% G4, cut stump with 50% G3A. Schinus terebinthifolius Brazilian pepper 1: All solution holes in hammock. spring Listed as noxious weed by FDACS

Floating seeds invade pristine coastal transistion areas. Also invades uplands. Still Cut stump with 50% G3A. Girdle large trees. Don't Thespesia populnea Seaside mahoe 1: C,S sold in Florida stores. seeds float, year round leave cut branches on ground. FKIETF CATEGORY II: INVASIVE EXOTICS THAT HAVE INCREASED IN ABUNDANCE OR FREQUENCY BUT HAVE NOT YET ALTERED FLORIDA KEYS PLANT COMMUNITIES TO THE EXTENT SHOWN BYCATEGORY I SPECIES (CONTINUED) Fast growing & seeding from where planted, Adenanthera pavonina Red sandalwood 2: S esp. hammocks birds/animals Basal or Stump with G4 30%

tall reproductive stalks produce pups which are spread when stalk falls to Establishes where dumped and spreads from the ground, summer‐late Agave sisalana Sisal hemp 2: C,S landscapes fall Spray with 3% G4 on center bud, manual removal

1: C,S Albizia lebbeck Woman's tongue Legume, difficult to kill. wind blown Basal or cut stump with 30% G4 Antigonon leptopus Coral Vine 2: All Isolated populations but spreads rapidly vegetative and by seed Basal with 20% G4

Asparagus aethiopicus 1: All Spreads from landscapes and establishes where (syn. A. densiflorus) Asparagus fern dumped dumping/birds/animals Foliar with 2% Roundup Pro

Common n/a Becoming increasingly more abundant in upper Asparagus setaceus asparagus fern Keys vegetative/dumping Manual removal or foliar with 2% Roundup Pro Madagascar Catharanthus roseus periwinkle n/a disturbed sites, beaches wind blown and vegetative Manual removal Invading into beach dune at Bahia Honda and in Cocos nucifera Coconut palm 2: S hammock at Lignumvitae Key seeds float manual removal or injection with Garlon 3A

Cryptostegia Madagascar 2:C,S summer, wind blown Basal with 10% G4 madagascariensis rubber vine Occurs in transitional wetlands and hammocks. Spreads from old homesteads in Upper Keys

Dactyloctenium aegyptium Crowfoot grass 2: All So far seems to be limited to disturbed sites or as an early colonizer only at natural sites. Also wind blown, rhizomes and found invading into beach dune at Bahia Honda mowing Foliar with 2% Roundup Pro

Invades variety of habitats: 23 FL counties, Big vegetative and tubers which Manual removal, bag tubers and remove from site. Dioscorea bulbifera ** Air Potato 1: All Pine, Key Largo, & Cudjoe. Spreads from float Listed as a noxious weed by FDACS landscapes and where dumbed

Epipremnum pinnatum cv. 2: C,S Spreads from landscapes and establishes where aureum Golden Pothos dumped. vegetative, dumping Foliar with 2% Roundup Pro

2 Major problem on mainland. Found in Key Largo wind dispersed and spreads and Big Pine Key. Original infestation from from contaminated mulch Manual removal including bulb and all root Eulophia graminea ** ground orchid contaminated mulch or equipment structures. Bag and remove from site. Eugenia uniflora Surinam cherry 1: C,S escaping from landscapes birds/animals Basal G4 15% or cut stump G3A 25%

1: C,S Invasive in uplands in Upper Keys, epi‐ and Ficus microcarpa Laurel fig litho‐phytic birds Basal with 5% G4 n/a spreads from landscape. Particular problem at residence at N end of Bahia Honda where Zoysia tenuifolia Zoysia grass spreading into coastal berm rhizomes Foliar with 2% Roundup Pro

COMMON SCIENTIFIC NAME NAME FLEPPC KEYS INVASION PATTERN AND COMMENTS SEEDING ERADICATION RECOMMENDATION DISPERSAL & SEASON FKIETF CATEGORY III: INVASIVE EXOTICS THAT HAVE NOT YET BECOME A SERIOUS PROBLEM IN THE FLORIDA KEYS BUT ARE TO BE WATCHED (TBW).

Local problem in Upper Keys; has appeared in Acacia auriculiformis Earleaf acacia 1: C,S Lower Keys wind dispersed Cut stump with 50% G3A

Local problem in Upper Keys particularly in Anredera vesicaria ** Madeira vine TBW Tavernier. Difficult to kill

Shoebutton Moving south on Card Sound Road but not Basal with 10% G4 or cut stump with 50% G3A. Ardisia elliptica ardisia 1: All yet in Keys birds, year round Listed as a noxious weed by FDACS Arundo donax Pampas grass TBW Marathon and Little Torch Key wind dispersed Cut stump 50% G3A

2: C,S Spreads from disturbed sites and climbs vegetative and seed Asystasia gangetica Ganges primrose forest edges dispersed Foliar with 2% Roundup Pro

Bauhinia variegata Orchid tree 1: C,S Landscape plant but not yet invading in Keys Basal with 10% G4 or cut stump with 50% G3A

One escape in Key Largo, serious problem in Broussonetia papyrifera Paper mulberry 2: All Dade Basal with 10% ‐ 30% G4

Copious seeder, invades canopy gaps near Bucida buceras Black Olive n/a parent birds/animals Bucida spinosa Ming Tree n/a Formerly in north Key Largo birds/animals

Basal with 10% G4 or cut stump with 50% G3A. Cupaniopsis anacardioides Carrotwood 1: C,S Recent introduction; has spread from birds/small mammals planting in Key West; invades uplands to Listed as a noxious weed by FDACS buttonwood zone Delonix regia Royal Poinciana TBW Naturalizing in Key Largo

Sickle bush, vegetative and seed Check with Monroe County Land Conservation Dichrostachys cinerea ** TBW Marabu Dense thickets in Cuba, Pacific Islands. Recent dispersed program population at Long Key transfer station Occasionally found surviving along woods Pencil cactus, Manual removal ‐ bag and remove from site or Euphorbia tirucalli n/a edge. Recently found on Lower Matecumbe dumping Pencil tree cut stump woody sections with 20% G3A Key in disturbed hammock 1:C,S Psidium cattleianum Strawberry guava Spreads from mainland fruit trees into uplands animals/humans Basal with 10% Garlon 4

TBW becoming increasingly more abundant in Key Manual removal bag and remove from site. Use Rotboellia cochinchinensis Itch grass Largo Hammock wind dispersed gloves Spreads vegetatively from dumping, Key Largo Selenicereus pteranthus Snake Cactus dumping, vegetative Manual removal bag and remove from site TBW Hammock, Marathon, Dove creek

Senna alata Candlestick plant becoming increasingly more abundant TBW

Senna pendula Christmas senna 1: C,S Crocodile Lake, and private property on ramrod

Glyphosate at a 3% solution. Listed as a noxious Solanum torvum Turkey berry 2: All removed from Cudjoe transfer station in 2011 animals weed by FDACS and USDA

Tropical soda Solanum viarum 1: All apple Has been quickly removed when spread from Glyphosate at a 3% solution. Listed as a prohibited sod plantings sod plantings plant and as a noxious weed by FDACS Syzygium cumini Java Plum 1: C,S One site on Ramrod key, waiting to see birds/small mammals Glyphosate at a 3% solution

Native species that are of special concern due to regional impacts in natural areas outside of their historic range in the Florida Keys vegetative and seed Cissus verticillata possum grape n/a Cultivar and problematic on Big Pine Key dispersed Manual removal

Pitch Clusia rosea apple/autograph n/a spreading in Key Largo/Dade/Broward, tree epiphytic, lithophytic. Considered an extirpated/reestablished plant for lower keys. birds, spring‐summer Basal with 10% G4

Native to mainland Fl. but not to Keys. Particularly problematic in pine rocklands on Big Pine where it outcompetes native shrubs and n/a groundcover and may alter fire ecology. Elsewhere it is early successional species that is outcompeted by hammock species. Pluchea carolinensis Cure‐for‐all Manual removal or cut stump with 30% G3A Native to mainland of Fl. but not to Keys. Danglepod, Sesbania herbacea n/a Becoming increasingly more abundant in birds/animals manual removal or cut stump with 30% G3A Sesbania disturbed areas

Native to upper Keys but invasive in middle and Swietenia mahogani West Indian lower Keys especially on Big Pine Key in mahogany n/a pinelands seeds are wind dispersed Don’t Plant A Weed

AlterNatives for landscaping in the Florida Keys

Plant Substitution Guide for the Florida Keys What is an Invasive Exotic?

Invasive exotic plants come in several categories, depending on how aggressively they invade our natural areas. The following definitions were adopted by the Florida Keys Invasive Exotic Task Force, which consists of all public and private land managers in the Keys. There are currently 62 exotic species classified as invasive in the Florida Keys. These invasive plants rankings are evaluated and updated by the Task Force every two years.

Category 1: Invasive exotics that are altering Florida Keys native plant communities by displacing native species, changing community structures or ecological functions, or hybridizing with natives. Category 1 plants are the most aggressive invaders. Their spread has been likened to a “green cancer” in our natural areas. Five species are still available for sale in nurseries today.

Category 2: Invasive exotics that have increased in abundance or frequency, but have not yet altered Florida Keys plant communities to the extent shown by Category 1 species. Category 2 plants tend to be unruly yard plants and often end up dumped over the fence. Many Category 2 plants are available in nurseries.

Category 3: “To be watched” invasive exotics that have not yet become a problem in the Florida Keys, but are problematic in other areas of the mainland or Caribbean. What is an AlterNative?

An AlterNative is a native plant that resembles an invasive plant in size, shape or function. AlterNatives are approved substitutions for Keys invasives that, if followed, will reduce seed sources in our natural areas, increase habitat on our islands and reduce nutrients in our waters. For the homeowner, use of AlterNatives will reduce fertilizing costs, watering time and overall gardening hassles for homeowners.

FLORIDA KEYS INVASIVE EXOTICS TASK FORCE LIST OF INVASIVE ANIMALS OF THE FLORIDA KEYS - 2013 Classification is modeled after the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council's criteria for invasive plant species

METHOD AND YEAR OF COMMENTS/CLASSIFICATION SCIENTIFIC NAME COMMON NAME KEYS INVASION PATTERN AND COMMENTS INTRODUCTION

FKIETF CATEGORY I: INVASIVE EXOTICS THAT ARE ALTERING FLORIDA KEYS ECOSYSTEMS BY DISPLACING NATIVE SPECIES, CHANGING COMMUNITY STRUCTURES OR ALTERING ECOLOGICAL FUNCTIONS

Anolis porcatus Cuban green anole Keyswide Introduced in the 1980s Common

Introduced in 1887 from cargo Anolis sagrei Brown anole Keyswide Common ship

Blattella asahinai Asian cockroach Keyswide Common

Introduced to Caribbean to Historic infestation on semaphore cactus on Little eradicate Opuntia species Cactoblastis cactorum Cactus moth Torch Key. Discovered in 2015 in Key Largo Occasional where problematic for Hammock BSP on outplanted individuals livestock

Gambian pouch Escaped from local breeder in Population fluctuates and is dependent upon recent Cricetomys gambianus Grassy Key rat early 2000s trapping efforts by USDA

Black spinytail Ctenosaura similis ** No Name, Big Pine Key First observed in 1978 Uncommon iguana

Feral and free roaming domestic cats are found Late 1700s. Escaped from Felis catus Cat Common throughout the Keys owners, breeders

Keyswide and now abundant. Vegetarians, but Iguana iguana Green iguana First observed in 1966 Common evidence of tree snail predation found in some

Pterois volitans Lionfish Keyswide Common Osteopilus septentrionalis Cuban tree frog Keyswide First documented in 1931 Common

Recently expanded range from Everglades into Key Largo. No breeding populations known yet. Known Python molurus bivittatus ** Burmese python First documented in the 1980s from pet release Rare to eat endangered rodents & many others. Recent state law requires $100 annual license and microchipping First observed in the late Rattus rattus Black rat Keyswide Common 1700s

Solenopsis invicta Imported fire ant Keyswide Common

First observed in 1987. Eurasian collared Streptopelia decaocto Keyswide Established throughout the Common dove Keys

Cuban garden Zachrysia provisoria Common snail FKIETF CATEGORY II: INVASIVE EXOTICS THAT HAVE INCREASED IN ABUNDANCE OR FREQUENCY BUT HAVE NOT YET ALTERED FLORIDA KEYS ECOSYSTEMS TO THE EXTENT SHOWN BYCATEGORY I SPECIES Common in local areas, uncommon throughout Keys Acridotheres tristis Common myna Has become increasingly more abundant praesignis Giant ameiva Grassy Key Rare Common in local areas, uncommon throughout Keys Anolis equestris equestris Knight anole Becoming more abundant throughout Keys First observed in 1952 Common in local areas, uncommon throughout Keys Cairina moschata Muscovey duck

First observed in 1966 and Columba livia Rock dove Keyswide has become established Common throughout the Keys

domestic Common Gallus gallus domesticus chicken Becoming more abundant throughout Keys Gekko gecko Tokay gecko Keyswide First observed in 1965 Common

Leiacephalus carinatus northern curly Has become increasingly Common armouri tailed Keyswide more abundant

First observed in 1969. Ocassional Myiopsitta monachus Monk parakeet Keyswide Breeding in upper Keys

Eleutherodactylus Greenhouse tree Common planirostris frog First observed in 1875 Rose-ringed Rare Psittacula krameri parakeet Pyton sebae Rock python ** Uncommon

First documented in 1982 in Key West. Not commonly observed due to cryptic nature Braminy blind Widespread throughout Keys but not known to Ramphotyphlops braminus snake have impact on native species

First observed in 1959 near Tampa. Established Rare throughout freshwater and brackish waters in south florida, but can also Sarotherodon melanotheron Blackchin Tilapia inhabitat coastal waters

Rare Sphaerodactylus argus argus Ocellated gecko

Streptopelia risoria Ringed turtle dove Rare

Sus scrofa Hog Little pine At least 10 years Ocassional

First observed in 1974 in Tilapia mariae Spotted Tilapia Rare canal in Miami. Established throughout freshwater and brackish waters in south florida, but can also inhabitat coastal waters white-throated Varanus albiqularis Rare monitor

Varanus niloticus ** Nile Monitor Rare

Varanus exanthematicus Savannah monitor Rare

Vulpes vulpes red fox Rare Zebrasoma veliferum Sailfin tang Off of Key Largo First observed in 2001 Rare White-winged Zenaida asiatica Rare dove

Native species that are of special concern due to regional impacts in natural areas outside of their historic range in the Florida Keys

Didelphis virginiana Virginia oppossum Native to upper Keys Sciurus carolinensis Gray squirrel Native to upper Keys THE COMMON IGUANA IN THE FLORIDA KEYS A Fact Sheet prepared by the Florida Keys Invasive Exotics Task Force

Introduction

Name: The iguana most often seen in the Florida Keys is the green iguana (Iguana iguana), also known as the common or American iguana. It is an herbivorous lizard and is one of two species in the genus Iguana. The use of the term “iguana” in this fact sheet refers to the green iguana.

Figure 1: Iguana iguana with typical green coloration, Figure 2: Older male Iguana iguana showing brown and grey coloration. note the dark bands on its underside.

Figure 4: Adult male Iguana iguana displaying orange Figure 4: Adult male Iguana iguana displaying orange coloration, coloration, note dark vertical bars on the tail. note dark vertical bars on the tail. Color: Hatchling and subadult iguanas exhibit a bright green coloration, while mature individuals are green (Figure 1). Brown and grey coloration appear in older individuals (Figure 2). Some males will even display pink and orange coloration that becomes brighter during the breeding season (Figure 3). Females remain green as they mature. Dark vertical bands on the tail and ventral striping can develop and become more prominent as the individual ages (Figure 4). Iguanas do not change color rapidly as some other can, such as our native green anoles or the Old World chameleons. Size: In south Florida, male iguanas can attain lengths in excess of five feet and weigh up to seventeen pounds. Females reach lengths similar to those of males, but are less robust and do not exceed weights of seven pounds.

Sexual Dimorphism: Mature male iguanas develop heavy jowls and a throat fan, known as a dewlap, that are visibly larger than that of female iguanas. A bone within its anterior margin of the dewlap is used to stretch the throat fan forward to its maximum extension. This behavior can be used to increase their apparent size in order to attract mates, repel rival males or warn predators. Extension of the dewlap can also be used to increase exposed surface area when basking. The dorsal ridge of spines is generally taller in males than in females, especially in large adults, but there is some overlap in this characteristic between sexes.

Distribution The historic distribution of iguanas includes the tropical American mainland from central Mexico south through most of southern Brazil, as well as a handful of islands in the southernmost Caribbean including Grenada, Curaçao, Trinidad and Tobago, St. Lucia, and St. Vincent, and Honduras (Figure 5). During the past century, the range of the iguana has increased explosively, with populations established as far away as Fiji and Hawaii.

Figure 5: Historic distribution (pre-introduction) of the green iguana. Image credit-http://reptiles.wikia.com/wiki/Green Iguana Introduction to Florida: Herpetologists, scientists and explorers of south Florida make no mention of the species until the mid-1900s. Since then, the iguana’s inability to survive prolonged cold temperatures has limited its northward expansion to southern counties of Florida and Texas. Reports of iguana bones found at archaeological sites have been documented in Mexico, Central America, throughout the Caribbean, the Bahamas, and Fiji, but not in Florida. The iguana is a well-documented and recent introduction throughout the northern Caribbean and in the Bahamas. An extensive literature search and discussion with reputable herpetologists found no support for iguanas being native to Florida, or for them arriving in Florida without human assistance. Over the past 50 years, their expansion has been due in large part to the iguana’s popularity in the pet trade, with millions of individuals imported for sale in pet shops across the state. Current distribution in Florida is shown in Figure 6, with the highest concentrations of individuals reported from Palm Beach, Broward, Miami- Dade, and Monroe counties.

Figure 6: Distribution of iguanas in Florida counties (EDDMaps 2015) Habitat: Young iguanas are typically observed on or within ten feet of the ground. They feed, bask and sleep in low trees and shrubs, and remain near thick foliage where they quickly hide if threatened. Females spend more time on the ground when seeking nest sites and digging nesting burrows. As they mature, iguanas climb higher into larger trees, with an increasing preference for trees near or over-hanging water. Unless disturbed, iguanas feed, bask and sleep in or near the same locations at the same times for weeks. Where they find food, water and shelter in close proximity, individuals may have fairly small territories.

Natural History: Iguanas feed primarily on leaves, flowers and fruits of various broad-leaved herbs, shrubs and trees. Seasonal variation in feeding exists and is dependent upon the availability of food. During the dry season fruit is often times more abundant, whereas during the rainy season, blossoms and new growth are more available. Although adult iguanas are typically herbivorous, they have been documented to be carnivorous when the opportunity arises (Lazell 1973). While there is proof of iguanas eating insects, snails, bird eggs, and carrion in the wild, these seem to be exceptions rather than typical behavior.

Growth and Reproduction: Iguanas are capable of reproducing in their second winter, and begin mating at approximately 1.5 years of age. Nesting typically occurs in March and April with eggs hatching by August. Gravid female iguanas have been found to carry as many as 71 eggs.

Natural Predators: In their native range, iguanas have numerous predators, including jaguar, ocelot, margay, weasel, tyra, grisón, skunk, otter and mink. Since Florida has no native cats of significant size in areas where iguanas are established, control of iguanas becomes problematic. Even more significant is that the Florida Keys, like most small island ecosystems, can support very few large predators, further limiting control on iguanas. Impacts in The Florida Keys: Concerns about the iguana’s impact on South Florida ecosystems can be based on what has happened in similar settings, where new and especially large herbivores were introduced and found their natural predators missing. Already, there are reports of selective feeding by iguanas on preferred plants killing some plants; this has potential to alter species abundance and plant community diversity and has particular significance on imperiled species.

In addition iguanas are also considered to be a serious nuisance in yards and pools. Damage to ornamental landscaping, potted plants, and crops such as mangos and tomatoes has been reported. Even having one large iguana can have a visible impact on the vegetation of a yard. In addition, nesting iguanas cause property damage and safety hazards by undermining sidewalks, pavement, seawalls and other structures. Droppings left by iguanas are conspicuous, slippery when wet, and may contain Salmonella bacteria. Interactions with pets can lead to serious injury as iguanas are effective at self-defense.

Control

Capture Techniques and Strategies: To achieve success, iguana control methods must be adaptive. Stalking and noosing iguanas produces good results among “naive” iguanas, especially if they are habituated to humans who generally ignore them. This technique is especially effective when territorial disputes and courtship (late-November through January) or nesting (March and April) bring large iguanas to the ground where their movements are easily heard moving in dry leaf litter.

Live traps: Iguanas are easily lured into traps baited with fruits that are bright (red or orange) or have a high contrast (dark blue, red or black). Pre-baiting (offering bait without the trap) helps lower fear of the trap in wary individuals by getting them accustomed to the handout, especially as they observe naive iguanas feeding without consequence.

Larger, passive traps with no slamming doors may be able to trap several iguanas at once. All traps should be checked frequently to prevent escapes, to replace bait stolen by songbirds, rats and land hermit crabs, and to be sure trapped animals are not left in the direct sun for too long. As iguanas are strictly diurnal, traps should only be set during daylight hours; setting traps before sunrise seems to be most effective. Traps should be closed by sunset to avoid catching non-target species such as raccoons. When nesting, female iguanas seek out warm substrate that is easily dug. Fresh woodchips compost rapidly, generating a good deal of heat. When piles of mulch are available, these are often chosen as nest sites. Mulch piles can be placed specifically to attract nesting iguanas. Careful monitoring is not necessary, simply remove the mulch pile on or near June 1, and any iguana eggs may be disposed of then.

Euthanasia: The AVMA accepted method for euthanasia is a properly located shot to the head penetrating the brain. Another possible source of disposal is wildlife rehabilitators who have found that injured raptors, herons, and vultures will accept iguanas offered as food. Iguanas that are found dead after a spell of cold weather may eventually become a toxic hazard to any pet that finds it, and should be disposed of immediately, rather than left in the environment. Anyone who needs to find a new home for a pet iguana, or any non-native wildlife, should contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, or watch for the annual Pet Amnesty Day.

Citations and Resources: Available on request. Contact the Florida Keys Invasive Exotic Task Force (Beth- [email protected] or [email protected] ) for information. The Florida Keys Invasive Exotic Task Force would like to thank Jim Duquesnel for his knowledge and expertise in drafting this document. Identification Guide For Invasive Exotic Plants of the Florida Keys 2014

Prepared by:

Kate Hadden, Kaita Frank, Chuck Byrd, Katie Norris, and Doug Gass The Nature Conservancy

for the

Florida Keys Invasive Exotics Task Force

Updated by FKIETF staff 2014

Scientific Name: Manilkara zapota

Common Name(s): Sapodilla, Chicle-gum tree Family: Sapotaceae

Height: Large tree, reaching 30 feet Leaves: Dull dark green, leathery, alternate and grow in clusters at the ends of twigs. Oblong or elliptical in shape, 2-5 inches long. Flowers: Flowers are white, about ½ inch wide, and clustered in the leaf axils. Bark: Reddish brown bark Fruit: Brown berries around 2-4 inches in diameter, with spongy brownish flesh. Thick skinned. Seeds are black and often possess a small barb at the tips. Other: Evergreen shrub occurring in hardwood hammocks and other habitats, shading and dense seeding a problem. Lateral branches of smaller trees grow around circumference of tree. Treat- Basal with 10%-25% triclopyr ester ment: Rank & FLEPPC: 1; FKIETF: 1; Commonly found near old (abandoned) home sites; fruits are carried by Reason: squirrels and probably other mammals; Key deer eat seedlings but may also disperse seeds. Popular fruit tree on mainland Origin: Central Similar Natives: Wild Dilly (Manilkara jaimiqui subsp. emarginata); see p.81 America

www.proscitech.com Natives to Know

Plants native to the Florida Keys that may be mistaken for one or more invasive exotic species.

Barbed-wire Cactus Acanthocereus tetragonus

Key Identifiers: Fleshy, 3-sided, wavy edged stems with a cluster of 4 to 7 spines at the tip of each “wave”; spines measure up to 1.5” in length; fruit is bright red and covered in spines Hylocereus undatus

Acanthocereus tetragonus Wild Tamarind Lysiloma latisiliquum

Key Identifiers: Medium to large sized tree growing between 40-60’ tall; leaves are bi-pinnately compound with approximately 5-8 pairs of pinnae per leaf and 10-20 pairs of leaflets per pinna; small limbs with a pronounced “zigzag” pattern; flowers are white and appear in globular clusters 0.5-1” in diameter; seed pods are 3-6 inches long and very thin.

Photo by Keith Bradley Lead tree (Leucaena leucocephala)

Photo by Keith Bradley

NISAW 2018 • National Invasive Species Awareness Week . Save the Date: February 24, 2017 –March 4, 2017 . So many event options to choose from! . Workshops . Webinars . Walkabouts, Oh My! NISAW 2018

• If you have not already started planning for NISAW, there is not time like the present to start! • CISMAs that have events scheduled with UF/IFAS Extension agents will get added press! IFAS Communications is doing a big media push for NISAW this year. FISP Workshop 2018

April 4, 2018 9am-12pm Crowne Plaza Melbourne – Oceanfront Topics Needed!!!! It’s never too early to start planning!

April 4 - 6, 2018 Winds of Change: Adaptive Management Under Changing Conditions FLEPPC 2018

FLEPPC Grants: • FLEPPC (2/3/2018) & FISP CISMA Grant • Kathy Craddock Burk Education Grant • Julia Morton Research Grant EDDMapS Local Plant Verifiers Needed!!! • Folks knowledgeable about invasive plants in the following counties: – Baker, Bradford, Charlotte, Clay, Collier, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Glades, Hamilton, Hendry, Lee, Levy, Madison, Nassau, Taylor • A single verifier can cover several counties and still have only a few records per month to review. • Site inspections are typically not required –we rely on photographs, local expertise, online herbarium records, communicating with observer, etc. • Contact Dexter Sowell for more information ([email protected]) EDRR Emails –Helpful? –Or just another email? Reporting Method –Google Form! • To be emailed & embedded on FISP Success Stories page. • Automatically fills a spreadsheet! • So easy it can be done while talking on the phone ;‐) CISMA Calendars Next Month’s Call

February 24, 2018 • FWC’s Invasive Plant Section – Samantha Yuan • Lake Okeechobee Aquatic Plant Interagency Task Force –David Lattuca Please take the Poll 2018 Bi‐annual CISMA Call Agenda January ‐ May

Suggestions Needed! Florida Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area (CISMA) Monthly Call –Hosted by the Florida Invasive Species Partnership (FISP) participation is voluntary, we promise it will only last 1 hour, and we can guarantee that you will enjoy the conversations

4th Wednesday of Log on through Zoom Every Month at 1:30pm Except November and December Call in with the Conference Line Join the listserv to receive announcements at: floridainvasives.org Or BOTH!