CFK concludes VIP Series with talk on invasive species

Dr. Douglas Mader, local veterinarian and author, will present at CFK’s VIP Series on Thursday, April 17 at 7p.m. in the Tennessee Williams Theater on the Key West Campus.

KEY WEST, FL, April 4, 2025— The College of the Florida Keys will conclude its 2025 VIP Series with “Invasive Species in the Florida Keys” on Thursday, April 17 at 7 p.m. in the Tennessee Williams Theatre on the Key West Campus. Dr. Douglas Mader, a local veterinarian and author, will explore changes in the Florida Keys’ fauna and flora over recent decades, focusing on the impact of invasive species.
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Dr. Mader’s presentation will highlight notable invaders such as Green Iguanas, pythons, Lionfish, Cuban Treefrogs, Haitian Curly-tailed Lizards, Myna Birds, and Monk Parrots. He will also address invasive plants like Australian Pines and Brazilian Pepper trees, which pose significant threats to the region’s ecosystem.

Dr. Mader is a triple board-certified veterinary specialist with over three decades of experience. An internationally acclaimed lecturer and reviewer for multiple scientific journals, he has authored medical textbooks and numerous scientific publications. His latest book is The Vet at Noah's Ark: Stories of Survival from an Inner-City Animal Hospital. Dr. Mader serves South Florida’s animal community as a consulting veterinarian for organizations including the Monroe County Sheriff's Office Zoo, Key West Aquarium, Dynasty Marine, the Sea Turtle Hospital, Everglades Alligator Farm, Zoo Miami, and Theater of the Sea.

Now in its eleventh season, the College’s VIP Series showcases the views, ideas, and perspectives (VIP) of speakers with local, regional, and national prominence. CFK’s 2025 VIP Series is sponsored by Essential Net Solutions. Tickets are $5 at the door; admission is free for students at CFK and Monroe County schools. For more information, call CFK at 305-296-9081 or visit the College’s website at CFK.edu/VIP.