The history of humans introducing non-native animal species to new lands is a long and glorious one. Some of the more notable successes include Africanized honey bees, which were introduced to the Americas in 1957 for the purpose of inspiring apocalyptic urban myths and low-budget horror films, and rabbits, which were set free in Australia in 1859 to inspire lazy Australians to get off their duffs and build a 2,021-mile rabbit-proof fence.

Typically, there is nothing to worry about when introducing new species. As Thomas Austin, the man who first released rabbits in Australia, said, “The introduction of a few rabbits could do little harm and might provide a touch of home, in addition to a spot of hunting.” Continue reading »