Everyone knows that lions can be found in Africa, buffalo in North America, kangaroos in Australia, and so on. They are native to these territories, and are common sights. This list, however, sets out to destroy some misconceptions: a few well-known animals are found in places you wouldn’t have expected to see them.

These animals are more than just escaped pets; they’re thriving, growing into ever-expanding colonies. Next time someone swears they saw a foreign creature hop across the road at night, don’t be so quick to discount them. They may be right!

10. Camels in Australia



Traditionally found in Africa and parts of Asia, Australia has a feral camel population of 1 million. The colony reproduces at an incredible rate, doubling in size every 9 years. The camels were introduced in 1822 by Conrad Multe-Brun, who needed the hearty creatures to explore the desolate Australian deserts. Since their introduction, the creatures have become a major pest, eating leafy greens and destroying infrastructure in their search for water. In some instances, camels have been known to charge into houses to drink from the toilet. Hunters are therefore encouraged to kill the animals – but the large colony is still expanding.

08. Hippos in Colombia



In the 1980s, notorious drug lord/billionaire Pablo Escobar built a zoo in his backyard. One of his favorite types of animal in the zoo were his four hippopotamuses, originally found in Africa. Upon his death, authorities concluded the animals were simply too big and dangerous to repossess, and as such left them to die. Instead, the animals managed to escape into the wild, where they remain to this day. As of 2007, the colony had grown to 16, dwelling in the Magdalena River. Surely, when Escobar thought about leaving a last legacy he did not imagine this.

06. Monkeys in Florida



 The continental United States has no recognized natural primates (other than humans). There is, however, a colony of Rhesus Macaques flourishing in the humid swamps of Florida, particularly the Silver River State Park. In 1938, a tour boat operator released the Macaques in an attempt to attract more business. More than 60 years later, the already-established colony received a boost in the form of Hurricane Andrew. The powerful storm destroyed animal testing labs in Florida, releasing more Macaques into the wild. Despite their friendly appearance, the creatures are violent and strong, and tourists are advised not to approach the animals.