What is the Burmese Python Elimination Program in Florida?

The Burmese Python Elimination Program is a state-run initiative in Florida that rewards people for capturing and humanely killing Burmese pythons, an invasive species that has taken over the Florida Everglades.

How many Burmese pythons have been removed from Florida since 2000?

Since 2000, more than 22,000 Burmese pythons have been eliminated from the state of Florida, though their population is estimated to be in the hundreds of thousands.

What impact have Burmese pythons had on the native wildlife in the Florida Everglades?

The Burmese python invasion has had a devastating impact on the Everglades' native wildlife, with significant declines in the populations of raccoons, opossums, bobcats, marsh rabbits, cottontail rabbits, and foxes.

Home / Environment / Experts Devise Optimal Strategy to Curb Burmese Python Invasion in Florida Everglades

Experts Devise Optimal Strategy to Curb Burmese Python Invasion in Florida Everglades

27 Oct

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Summary

Burmese pythons have taken over Florida Everglades in just decades
Researchers identify best conditions and locations for increased python removals
Warm temperatures, late-night surveys, and use of aquatic vehicles improve capture

Experts Devise Optimal Strategy to Curb Burmese Python Invasion in Florida Everglades

In the past few decades, Burmese pythons have taken over the Florida Everglades, posing a serious threat to the region's native wildlife. However, a new study published in Scientific Reports has provided hope that this invasive species can be brought under control.

The study, conducted by researchers from the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, analyzed python removal data to identify the optimal conditions and locations for increased removals. The findings revealed that warm temperatures, especially during the wet season and late at night, significantly improve python capture surveys. Additionally, the researchers determined that the western edge of the Big Cypress National Preserve by the Tamiami Trail and Palm Beach County Stormwater Treatment Area 3/4 are the areas where more pythons can be removed.