Florida Turns Python Hunts into Lucrative Fashion Industry

In a bold move, the state of Florida has partnered with a Miami-based luxury leather manufacturer, Inversa, to transform its python hunts into a thriving fashion industry. The partnership, announced in October 2025, aims to significantly increase the number of invasive Burmese pythons removed from the state.

Inversa, known for its innovative use of python and other invasive species' skin, pays hunters around 60% more than the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) previously did. The company has also introduced advanced AI-enabled tools to aid in the aerial detection and hunting of pythons, further boosting the efficiency of the program.

The processed python skin is available in a variety of colors and finishes, including matte, glossy, pink, yellow, green, and white. Inversa then uses this high-quality material to create a range of luxury products, such as wallets, belts, and boots, which are sold across the globe, from Paris to New York.

According to Governor Ron DeSantis, the partnership with Inversa has already yielded impressive results. In July 2025 alone, 748 pythons were removed, surpassing the entire previous year's total. The new program has also reduced the administrative burden on the FWC by 89%, allowing the agency to focus on other conservation efforts.

As the Burmese python invasion continues to threaten the delicate ecosystem of the Everglades, Florida's innovative approach to turning this challenge into an economic opportunity has proven to be a game-changer in the fight against the invasive species.