Invasive Species Science

Acting Branch Chief: Robert Reed

FORT scientists in the Invasive Species Science Branch develop models to understand and forecast invasive species distribution and spread, and conduct research to develop methods for control and prevention of invasive reptiles and amphibians.

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In the News

Invasive Boa Constrictors Make New Home on Puerto Rico

A newly published research paper, co-authored by USGS scientist Robert Reed and others, documents the establishment of boa constrictors on Puerto Rico. This is the first documented population of a large constrictor snake in a U.S. state or territory outside of Florida. The new population appears to be spreading from its likely point of origin around the city of Mayagüez, in the western part of the island. In the paper, published in the scientific journal Biological Invasions, the authors describe genetic studies they conducted showing that individual boas on the island are highly related and likely come from a small number of boas stemming from the pet trade, even though private ownership of boas and most other snakes is prohibited on the island. In the last year alone, more than 150 boas have been found in the wild on the island. Read the full news release at Invasive Boa Constrictor Thriving on Puerto Rico

 Genetic Analysis of a Novel Invasion of Puerto Rico by an Exotic Constricting Snake

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Publications:
 

 Consumption of bird eggs by invasive Burmese pythons in Florida

 Ecological correlates of invasion impact for Burmese pythons in Florida

 Weather effects on avian breeding performance and implications of climate change

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