Escaped Deadly Frogs Might Be Next Murder Hornets For Washington State

You'd Be Surprised On What Qualify's As An Evasive Species In Washington State

You see the signs all the time and you drive by them but it might not occur to you that you've caused a situation that might have dire consequences.

African Clawed Frogs Can Be Deadly To The State Of Washington

I was always under the impression that only boat owners had to worry about "evasive" species being released into Washington State but I discovered that the problem is a lot bigger than you would think.

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According to the Washington State of Fish and Wildlife, African Clawed Frogs are an invasive species of concern that can eat native amphibians and fish, including baby salmon

Here's what the Evasive Species Council says about releasing pets into the wild:

Abandoned pets and plants that are released into the wild may become a serious problem. Never release unwanted home or classroom pets, animals, or plants into the wild, such as rivers, streams, lakes, or stormwater ponds.

Most unwanted pets will not survive in the wild and may suffer before death. If it does manage to survive, it may harm the environment and businesses. Invasive species cost the United States billions of dollars each year.

Some of the most devastating invasive species originally were sold as pets or plants for gardens, ponds, and aquariums.

It's one of those eye-openers for me. It never occurred to me that a family pet like a frog, fish, or even a plant could do so much damage.

If you do need to rehome your pet, there is a map and website provided by the Evasive Species Council that'll help you in the process. You can click here for more details and the map.

If you have an African Clawed Frog, you might rethink that decision to keep it. It would be wise to contact the Evasive Species Council for guidance.