Florida Man Cited for Nabbing Python in Park

In April, Yatir Nitzany, a Florida resident, encountered an 8-foot Burmese python on a road within Everglades National Park. Nitzany, feeling it was his obligation to capture the invasive snake, apprehended it before it could escape. Onlookers applauded his action, but a park ranger issued him a $180 fine and a citation for handling wildlife without a permit.

Nitzany expressed frustration, stating he felt treated like a criminal for removing a destructive species. Burmese pythons have significantly impacted the park's native wildlife since the mid-1980s, reportedly causing an 85% to 100% decline in medium-sized mammals by 2012.

While capturing and killing pythons is permitted in much of Florida without a license, Nitzany's actions in the federally controlled park allegedly violated regulations requiring a permit. He was later contacted multiple times by park employees regarding the fine and court date.

With the support of animal rescue advocates, Nitzany decided to contest the citation. He argued that his experience handling snakes and immediate action likely saved native animals. On June 12, 2026, the case was dismissed in court, with Nitzany being told the citation was "improperly written."

Everglades National Park issued a statement confirming the dismissal and noting their support for python removal through established programs like the Florida Python Challenge, which is scheduled for July 10-19, 2026.