A recent outbreak of monkeypox in the Midwest has been traced to infected
prairie dogs that were sold as pets. The Center for Disease Control reports
that about 90,000 humans have contracted the salmonella bacteria from
playing with pet reptiles. SARS, the respiratory epidemic, is thought to
have come from civet cats. They are bred to be sold in Chinese markets as
an exotic meat. While in these markets, the cats live near the cages of
other animals like bats and snakes. These other animals will also be sold
for human consumption. Some exotic pets are dumped in the wild by their
owners when they grow too large or become too much of a burden to care for.
This may pose an even greater threat to global biodiversity - and the cycle
continues.
Tech Effect
Rashida Betts, Literacy Coach
G. James Gholson Middle School
900 Nalley Rd.
Landover, MD 20785
To contact me:
Phone: 301-883-8390
Fax: 301-883-8394
E-mail: rashida.betts@pgcps.org
