The GLMRIS Natural Resources Team has just release a whitepaper detailing the Non-Native Species of Concern and Dispersal Risk for the Great Lakes and Mississippi River Interbasin.

A big part of the ALA's mission is conservation. Invasive species are sometimes the result of wild-release by hobbyists, but we prefer to be part of the solution. Educating fellow hobbyists about wild-release and how to spot invasive species can help address this serious problem.

Once our article directory is up & running, I'll add an educational article for hobbyists to share. In the meantime, the basic concept is simple enough...

NEVER RELEASE PETS INTO THE WILD! Even if they don't survive, they can spread disease or hybridize with native species. If they do survive, they compete for food and territory, often to a point of eliminating native species.

Even if none of that concerns you, consider the future bans and heavy regulating that can result for all hobbyists because of one person's irresponsible behavior. If you can't rehome it, humanely euthanize it.

Have you ever seen non-native species in the wild?