Florida Python Hunt Offers Hands-On Experience with Invasive Species Crisis

FLORIDA

— The fight against invasive Burmese pythons in the

Florida Everglades

is more than just a government initiative — it’s also drawing public participation through organized nighttime hunts that offer citizens a firsthand look at the ecological threat these reptiles pose.

A recent python hunt under the moonlit swamps gave participants a chance to

track, capture, and learn about Burmese pythons

, which are considered one of the

most destructive invasive species in Florida

. The large snakes, which can grow up to 20 feet, have been responsible for drastically reducing native mammal populations in the Everglades, including rabbits, raccoons, opossums, and even deer.

An Immersive Wildlife Management Experience

Participants joined wildlife officials and experienced snake handlers for the hunt. As shown in the images shared online, hunters were able to

safely capture pythons

, observe their anatomy, and receive hands-on education about how these predators

disrupt the native food chain

.

Wearing swamp gear and protective gloves, volunteers navigated dense vegetation and swampy terrain, learning proper handling techniques and how to spot python tracks or hiding areas. Many expressed surprise at the

size and strength of the snakes

, with some captures weighing over 60 pounds.

These hunting programs are part of the broader

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)

and

South Florida Water Management District’s Python Elimination Program

, which pays registered contractors for removing the invasive species from public lands.

Why It Matters: Burmese Pythons and the Everglades

Native to Southeast Asia,

Burmese pythons were introduced into the wild in Florida likely through the exotic pet trade

. Since their population boom in the early 2000s, they have become a significant threat to native wildlife. With few natural predators, their numbers have surged, making manual removal a key tool in slowing their spread.

According to the

National Park Service

, more than 19,000 pythons have been removed from the Everglades region since 2000. Still, experts say that’s a fraction of the total population, which is difficult to measure due to the snakes’ secretive nature and the region’s vast size.

How to Participate

Florida residents and visitors interested in participating in these efforts can learn more through the

, an annual competition and education event. Registration for guided hunts is often available through partnerships with conservation groups and outdoor education programs.

Participants are encouraged to undergo training to ensure safety for themselves and the environment.

Have you ever encountered an invasive species in your area? Share your story or learn more about conservation efforts at