The Great Florida Python Round-Up: How Many Slithery Scamps Met Their Match in 2022?
Florida, the land of sunshine, beaches, and...well, a whole lot of unwelcome houseguests. We're talking about the Burmese python, folks, a giant constrictor with a serious appetite for anything that moves (and sometimes things that don't...RIP slippers). But fear not, intrepid wildlife warriors! Every year, Florida throws down the gauntlet with the Florida Python Challenge, a ten-day battle royale between humans and hungry honkers.
How Many Pythons Were Caught In Florida In 2022 |
So, how many pythons went belly-up in the Everglades in 2022?
Brace yourselves, because this is a number worthy of a "wowzers": a record-breaking 231 pythons were snatched from the swampy clutches of Florida. That's right, folks, over two hundred scaly supermodels got the boot (or, more accurately, the humane capture and removal).
Now, that's a whole lot of snake skin boots you won't be seeing at next season's fashion show.
This impressive haul surpasses the previous year's count and highlights the dedication of almost 1,000 participants who came from across 32 states, Canada, and even Latvia (talk about a long commute for a python wrangling vacation!).
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But wait, there's more!
The 2022 Python Challenge wasn't just about quantity, it was also about quality (well, as much quality as you can get with a giant snake). The competition saw Matthew Concepcion slither away with the Ultimate Grand Prize after wrestling a whopping 28 pythons to the ground. That's some serious python wrangling prowess!
Meanwhile, Dustin Crum snagged the title for the longest python captured, a leggy legend measuring in at a cool 11 feet and 0.24 inches. This is basically a participation trophy that says, "Look at this absolute unit I wrangled!"
So, the message is clear: Florida's pythons are on notice. The humans are coming, and they're armed with tongs, traps, and an unwavering determination to keep the Everglades python-free!
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FAQ: You've Got Python Questions, We've Got (Short) Answers!
How to participate in the Florida Python Challenge?
The next Python Challenge is just around the corner (usually held in August). Keep an eye on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) website for registration details!
How to become a certified python wrangler?
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While the Python Challenge is open to enthusiasts, professional removal often requires specific training. Check with your state wildlife agency for licensing and certification programs.
How to identify a Burmese python?
Burmese pythons are large, brown snakes with dark splotches. They have a blunt head and lack heat pits (unlike rattlesnakes). If you see a suspicious slitherer, contact your local wildlife agency.
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How to humanely remove a python from your property?
Leave professional snake wrangling to the pros! Contact your local wildlife agency for safe removal.
How to avoid attracting pythons to your property?
Keep your yard clean and free of debris where pythons can hide. Secure garbage cans and eliminate potential food sources like rodents.