Related videos:
As the Florida Python Challenge approaches, registration for the event remains open, a public competition aimed at eliminating Burmese pythons from the Everglades ecosystem.
The event, with a non-refundable registration fee of 25 dollars, will take place between July 11 at 12:01 a.m. and July 20 at 5:00 p.m., and those who wish to participate can now register on the official site flpythonchallenge.org.
During the competition, up to $25,000 in prizes will be offered, including a grand prize of $10,000 for the person who captures the most snakes and $1,000 for the individual who catches the longest python.
Burmese pythons are large, constricting, non-venomous snakes that are not native to Florida, and their presence in the Everglades poses a direct threat to the local wildlife, as they prey on birds, small mammals, and other reptiles.
Participating in the Python Challenge is an active way to contribute to the conservation of this fragile ecosystem, and those who complete the registration will receive an official event t-shirt, the organizers emphasize.
Additionally, it is not just a competition: it is a concrete way to act in defense of Florida's biodiversity.
An important part of this initiative is environmental education because, although Burmese pythons resemble some native snakes of Florida, the latter must be protected.
Learning to correctly distinguish between invasive and native species is essential to avoid harming the animals that are part of the natural balance.
In the event of spotting a live Burmese python or another non-native snake at large, the public can report it immediately by calling 888-Ive-Got1, the designated hotline for these cases.
Burmese pythons have been introduced by humans, and their uncontrolled spread poses a threat to numerous native species.
The Everglades constitute a unique ecosystem in the world, covering nearly four million acres in southern Florida.
This region is home to more than 360 species of birds, 300 species of fish, 50 species of reptiles, 40 species of mammals, and a wide variety of insects.
Many of these species, such as the manatee, the American crocodile, or the Florida panther, are rare or endangered.
There are also other less known species living there, such as the Key Largo mouse and the Cape Sable seaside sparrow.
The various habitats of the area—such as mangroves, savannas, estuaries, pine forests, and grass prairies—make the Everglades an unparalleled biological sanctuary.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Florida Python Challenge 2025
What is the Florida Python Challenge and when does it take place?
The Florida Python Challenge is a public competition aimed at removing Burmese pythons from the Everglades ecosystem, a dangerous invasive species for the local wildlife. The event takes place from July 11 at 12:01 a.m. to July 20 at 5:00 p.m.
What are the prizes for the Florida Python Challenge 2025?
During the competition, up to $25,000 in prizes will be offered, including a grand prize of $10,000 for the person who catches the most snakes and $1,000 for the individual who captures the longest python.
Why is the control of the Burmese python population in Florida important?
Burmese pythons are a threat to the native wildlife of the Everglades because they feed on birds, small mammals, and other reptiles. Their control is essential to protect native species, some of which are endangered.
How can interested parties participate in the Florida Python Challenge?
Interested parties must register on the official site flpythonchallenge.org and complete a mandatory online course on safe and ethical python hunting. Registration costs a non-refundable fee of 25 dollars.
What safety measures should be followed during the Florida Python Challenge?
The use of firearms, dogs, or other animals as hunting aids is prohibited. Pythons must be removed in an ethical and legal manner, in accordance with the conservation regulations of the area.
Filed under: