Why We Don't Kill Off Invasive Species

Why were cane toads originally introduced to Australia?

• To control a beetle population that was damaging sugarcane crops.

• To provide a new food source for native Australian animals.

• To be kept as exotic pets by local residents.

• To help with the pollination of native Australian plants.

What characteristic of cane toads contributed most to their success as an invasive species in Australia?

• Their small size and camouflage.

• Their ability to reproduce rapidly and their poisonous nature.

• Their diet consisting only of specific insects.

• Their natural predators in Australia.

What was a major negative impact of introducing the small Indian mongoose to various islands?

• It primarily ate plants, leading to deforestation.

• It successfully controlled all invasive rodent populations without further issues.

• It caused the extinction of many native species and spread diseases like rabies.

• It became a popular pet, leading to overpopulation in homes.

After poisoned bait was used on Macquarie Island, what method was employed to eliminate the remaining invasive rabbits?

• Reintroducing cats to hunt the rabbits.

• Using specially trained dogs to track and eliminate them.

• Setting up traps across the entire island.

• Introducing a new type of plant that rabbits couldn't eat.