Massive Invasive Fish Removed from Colorado Pond Thanks to Local Angler
Colorado authorities recently made a surprising discovery in a local pond in Arvada – massive invasive bighead carp. Thanks to a tip from a local fishing enthusiast, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) were able to remove fourteen bighead carp from Jack B. Tomlinson Park.
The bighead carp, which are not native to Colorado, were all at least three feet long, with the heaviest weighing in at a whopping 46 pounds. These fish are known for their large appetites and ability to outcompete native species for food and resources.
According to CPW, the bighead carp were introduced in 1992 as part of a study to reduce pond algae, but even after being removed in 1995, the species persisted. CPW Northeast Region Public Information Officer Kara Van Hoose emphasized the importance of reporting any unusual sightings while fishing, as invasive species can have a significant impact on the ecosystem.
In a social media post, CPW joked about the “Jaws jokes” made about the discovery and thanked the angler who tipped them off. CPW District Wildlife Manager Philip Sorensen expressed gratitude for the public’s help in identifying invasive species in their neighborhoods.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance in protecting local ecosystems from invasive species. For more information on this story and other lifestyle news, visit www.foxnews.com/lifestyle.