Invasive Burmese Pythons: Hunters Remove 11 Snakes Including Record 16-Foot Python in Florida Swamp

On February 21, a team of wildlife trackers made a remarkable discovery in the swamps of southern Florida, particularly in a marsh near Naples. The team stumbled upon not just one, but two mating balls of pythons in a single day, marking an unprecedented event in their decade-long battle against invasive snakes.

Unprecedented Discovery

During the expedition, the team managed to capture a total of 11 pythons, including one monstrous specimen measuring over 16 feet in length and weighing in at a staggering 500 pounds. This significant catch set a new record for the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, validating the success of their radio-telemetry program which had been initially experimental.

Bartoszek further elaborated on the success achieved through the radio-telemetry program, emphasizing the invaluable insights into snake behavior that the team was able to witness firsthand. His sentiment was shared despite his recent encounter with a python resulting in a tooth being lodged in his hand.

Tracked Movement and Removal Efforts

Since 2013, the conservancy has been actively tracking the movements of 110 pythons across southwest Florida. This initiative has provided valuable insights into python behavior, particularly the distinctive shifts in direction observed in male pythons when they detect the presence of a female. The utilization of implanted males as a means to track down the females has led to a significant shift in the program’s objectives.

The conservancy has successfully removed a staggering 1,300 pythons from a 150-square-mile area near Naples, equivalent to over 35,000 pounds or 17 tons of snakes. According to Bartoszek, the removal primarily targeted adult females, resulting in the prevention of tens of thousands of eggs from hatching.

Challenges and Victories

Highlighting the challenges faced during the capturing process, Bartoszek and his team often find themselves traversing remote areas with no accessible roads. Once a signal is detected, the team embarks on arduous journeys through wetlands, often culminating in intense physical confrontations with the pythons.

During the momentous day of the mating balls discovery, two male pythons named Hisstopher and George played pivotal roles in leading the team to the extraordinary find. The first mating ball consisted of two males and a massive 16-foot, 125-pound female, while the second ball comprised five males and a 14-foot, 85-pound female, presenting a surreal yet challenging sight for the team.

Environmental Impact

The invasive Burmese pythons, originally native to Southeast Asia, have significantly impacted the ecosystem in Florida. They have been documented consuming a wide array of wildlife, including 24 species of mammals, 47 species of birds, and three reptile species in South Florida alone. Their predatory behavior even extends to attacking larger prey such as a 35-pound deer.

The absence of natural predators in Florida has prompted the conservancy to engage in a relentless battle against these formidable reptiles. While the success of the tracking program is evident in the capture of 11 snakes in a single day, Bartoszek emphasizes the ongoing nature of the struggle, with the need for more effective control measures.

Continued Efforts and Progress

Despite the challenges, the conservancy remains committed to their mission, focusing on key battles and actively seeking improved control tools. The ongoing success of their program reflects a resolute effort to mitigate the impact of the invasive pythons in the region.