JACKSON – The Wyoming Game and Fish Department is urging the public to refrain from releasing pet fish, such as goldfish, into local waterways. Recently, Game and Fish fisheries biologists in the Jackson Region discovered goldfish in the pond at May Park after receiving a tip from a concerned citizen. The introduction of exotic pets can pose serious risks to Wyoming's aquatic ecosystems.
Goldfish are hardy animals and can survive Wyoming winters. They grow and reproduce quickly, depleting vital resources that native species rely on, introducing harmful diseases, and competing directly with native populations for food and essential resources.
"Releasing fish into Wyoming waters can quickly lead to new invasive populations that can be extremely difficult to remove, diverting fisheries managers from other critical responsibilities,” said Darren Rhea, Jackson Regional Fisheries Supervisor. “Given the serious impacts an illegal fish introduction can have on a fishery, this crime carries some of the highest penalties that exist for wildlife violations."
The Game and Fish Department advises all pet owners to be aware of laws that make certain species illegal to possess and to never release any plants or animals into the wild. If a pet becomes difficult to care for or if aquarium plants need to be discarded, Game and Fish recommends following the C.A.R.E. guidelines.
Contact the place where you purchased the pet to see if they will take it back.
Act responsibly by never letting animals or plants loose into the wild.
Research other places that may be able to provide a new home for your pet. Pet stores, zoos, aquariums, science centers, animal shelters, and humane societies may be able to help.
Euthanize the animal in a humane way. It may be hard to consider, but this option is far kinder than letting it starve to death in the wild or destroy the homes of native animals. Always freeze unwanted plants and throw them out in the trash.
For more information about exotic species that should not be released into the wild, the environmental consequences of doing so, and how to properly dispose of these species, please visit the Game and Fish “Don’t Let it Loose” webpage.