The Great Florida Python Round-Up: How Many Slithery Sucker Punches Did We Land in 2023?
Florida's got sunshine, beaches, retirees living their best life... and a whole lotta pythons. These aren't your friendly neighborhood ball pythons, mind you. We're talking about Burmese pythons, invasive giants that can grow longer than your car and have a serious appetite for local wildlife.
So, how do we keep these scaly super noodles in check? Enter the Florida Python Challenge, an annual event where intrepid adventurers (or folks who just really don't like snakes) are deputized to become python wranglers for a chance to win cash and bragging rights. It's basically "Snakes on a Plane: The Video Game," but way more real and way less Samuel L. Jackson.
 |
| How Many Pythons Were Caught In Florida In 2023 |
2023 by the Numbers: A Banner Year for De-Snekification
This year's challenge was a hissing success! Over 1,000 courageous participants, some even venturing from as far as Belgium (probably because someone challenged them to a weird bet), managed to snag a whopping 209 Burmese pythons. That's a lot of nope ropes being sent to the great reptile roundup in the sky!
Fun Fact: That's enough snake to make a scarf that would wrap around the entire state of Rhode Island... twice! (Although, we wouldn't recommend it. Fashion faux pas aside, that'd be pretty creepy.)
QuickTip: Reread for hidden meaning.
Did They Catch 'Em All?
Not quite. Experts estimate there could be anywhere from 100,000 to 300,000 Burmese pythons slithering around the Everglades. So, the battle continues! But hey, 209 fewer pythons is 209 fewer threats to Florida's delicate ecosystem.
FAQ: You've Got Python Questions, We've Got (Short) Answers
How to become a Florida Python wrangler?
The Python Challenge typically happens in August. Keep an eye on the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website (https://myfwc.com/) for updates!
QuickTip: Look for patterns as you read.
How to identify a Burmese python?
 |
They're big, brown, and have splotches like a spilled cup of lukewarm coffee. If you see a giant snake that looks like it could swallow a small dog, it's probably a Burmese python.
How to avoid pythons in Florida?
QuickTip: Skip distractions — focus on the words.
Sticking to well-populated areas is a good start. If you're hiking, stay on marked trails and be aware of your surroundings.
How to ethically dispose of a dead python?
Contact your local wildlife agency. They'll be happy to take care of it for you.
Tip: Train your eye to catch repeated ideas.
How to make Florida even more awesome?
Easy! Help control the python population (ethically, of course) and keep this beautiful state wild and wonderful.
 |
