Mile-a-minute vine (Persicaria perfoliata) found in North Carolina

Persicaria perfoliata is established for the first time in North Carolina in at least three populations in north central Alleghany County. See article here: http://www.phytoneuron.net/PhytoN-Persicariaperfoliata.pdf

REDDy: Reptile Early Detection and Documentation Observer Training Course

Several species of large, carnivorous lizards and snakes native to other parts of the world have been introduced and are now established in central and southern Florida. Some of these species--such as Nile Monitor Lizards and Burmese Pythons--are likely causing harm to our native ecosystem. Other species, such as Anacondas, have been found in Florida but are not yet believed to be established and breeding. Early detection and rapid response networks are the key to preventing new introductions and preventing established invaders from spreading to new areas. Observers play a key role in a much larger management program by helping to detect and document the spread of these species and the introduction of new species.

This online course created by the University of Florida help you join the fight to stop these dangerous invaders: http://ufwildlife.ifas.ufl.edu/reddy.shtml

Zedonk born in Georgia

A zedonk, a rare cross between a zebra and a donkey, was born in Chestatee Wildlife Preserve in north Georgia this week. The foal has stripy legs, is in good health and has bonded well with her mother. The baby zedonk was named Pippi Longstocking. Click here to read more and see a video of this rare cross.

Potential Biocontrol for Skunk Vine

A new beetle that could be used to control the invasive weed called skunk vine has been identified by Agricultural Research Service scientists and cooperators. The tiny, black beetle (Himalusa thailandensis) measures only one-tenth of an inch long. It was found in Thailand feeding on species of skunk vine closely related to two skunk vine species invading the southern United States. This beetle species belongs to a group of insects that are normally scavengers or predators, so finding this plant feeding species is a unique discovery. To read more, click here.

Emerald Ash Borer Found in Tennessee

The Tennessee Department of Agriculture announced yesterday (July 27, 2010) the discovery of emerald ash borer. This is the first detection of the destructive tree pest in the state. Tennessee's Agriculture Commissioner says they will be working closely with federal officials to determine the extent of the infestation and take steps to slow its spread. The emerald ash borer was found last week at a truck stop in Knox County near the Loudon County line. Click here to read the full article.

Gator Feeding Frenzy

A local man expected an ordinary day of fishing when he dipped his boat into the black water at Stephen C. Foster State Park earlier this month. Instead, the next few minutes proved to be anything but ordinary. The man witnessed and caught on video a rare phenomenon that some call cooperative feeding or what the witness calls a "feeding frenzy". This consists of hundreds of alligators congregating to feed. Click here to watch the videos and to read the full article.

Dengue Fever in Central Florida

A handful of people in Central Florida have been infected by Dengue fever. Experts say this is not a regular flu virus, it is a lot worse. You get a horrible fever called 'break bone fever'. You feel like your bones are breaking, however, it is joint pain. The fever has been picked up from mosquitoes in the Keys and from other places out of the country. To read the full article, click here.