Reptile Early Detection and Documentation REDDy

1. Introduced species of vertebrates, some of which become established and cause ecological and economic damage in addition to negatively impacting human quality of life are a significant concern in Florida and elsewhere. Pythons in the Everglades, several iguana species in South Florida, and red-eared sliders throughout the state of Florida are prime examples. Although prevention of introductions is the best way to mitigate problems caused by invasive species, a more realistic management strategy to deal with current introductions is Early Detection/Rapid Response (EDRR). With EDRR, an informed and trained group of individuals serves as the “eyes and ears” to document invasive species and report these sightings (early detection) so that rapid responders can go out and remove the introduced species detected and reported. Training individuals to serve as early detectors is thus an essential component of EDRR.

The Reptile Early Detection and Documentation online training module, dubbed REDDy, was created as an online resource to train individuals as early detectors for select species of large, invasive reptiles (e.g., large constrictor snakes, large carnivorous lizards). The REDDy module is a collaborative effort among IFAS Extension, the National Park Service, The Nature Conservancy, and the Everglades Comprehensive Invasive Species Management Area. This interactive, online module targets natural resource professionals employed by various agencies (e.g., NPS, Water Management Districts, USFWS, etc.), County Extension Agents, environmental educators, Master Naturalists, Master Gardeners, and the interested public. REDDy was created largely by IFAS Extension with significant input from a focus group consisting of personnel with NPS, TNC, SFWMD, FWC, and IFAS Extension. Dr Steve Johnson, UF IFAS Extension Specialist and ANREP/FANREP member played a key role in development and dissemination of these materials.

The free REDDy module consists of an interactive presentation, which includes narrated PowerPoint slides that emphasizes what species to look for, where to look for them, and how to report sightings. The REDDy module also includes numerous documents (e.g., data sheet, species profile pages, quick reference ID guides) that can be downloaded and printed. A quiz is required at the end of the module to demonstrate mastery of the material presented in the module and people who complete the training and pass the quiz are able to print a certificate (suitable for framing no less). REDDy is hosted by the IFAS ECIS system and the training is free. Go to http://ufwildlife.ifas.ufl.edu/reddy.shtml to get REDDy!

Evaluating impacts of REDDy consists of monitoring the number of trainees (approx. 150 to date) as well as the number of invasive reptiles reported by REDDy-trained observers. Current trainees range from County Extension Agents and Master Gardeners, to employees with numerous county, state, and federal agencies. Trainees are requested to submit suggestions on how the REDDy online module can be improved. Thus far we have received a great deal of positive feedback from trainees indicating significant knowledge gain and an ability to recognize and report large, invasive reptiles. This module is now required of all participants in The Nature Conservancy’s python rapid responder training.

It is not possible to submit a CD or DVD containing the training module. To review and evaluate the REDDy training module follow the links at http://ufwildlife.ifas.ufl.edu/reddy.shtml