Nile monitors, large predatory lizards originally native to Africa, have been spotted thriving in South Florida, specifically within the C-51 Canal in Palm Beach County. Despite control efforts by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, these evasive lizards present challenges in trapping due to their speed and adaptability. Wildlife biologist Eric Suarez noted their initial introduction in 1981 and growth into breeding populations by the 1990s. Different trapping success in Cape Coral raises questions about environmental factors. Canals in Florida serve as transportation routes for reptiles, enabling them to spread more easily.
The C-51 Canal was the main area of introduction for Nile monitors in Palm Beach County, facilitating their expansion to other canals.
Wildlife officials believe that canals act as conduits for the Nile monitors, helping them spread to new areas.
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