Florida's Python Challenge Slithers Back in 2016

Hunters who don’t mind mucking through Florida’s swamps and sawgrass in search of elusive prey might want to put the 2016 Python Challenge on their radars.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has joined forces once again with the Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida to play host to a month-long roundup of these invasive creatures. Burmese pythons have become a real concern in South Florida where reports of the critters continue to make headlines as a variety of small mammals – including domestic pets – serve as staples in their diets.

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The non-native creatures have been a problem in South Florida since the 1980s with their population continuing to grow. The state launched its first challenge in 2013 to cull the numbers and allows harvesting in several management areas, according to the FWC website.

The state’s 2013 Python Challenge drew an estimated 1,600 hunters. Only 68 snakes were bagged. Even so, participants were eligible for cash prizes with $1,500 going to those responsible for the largest harvests. Prizes were also awarded to hunters who bagged the biggest python with the $1,000 reward going to Paul Shannon for a 14-foot, 3-inch Burmese.

While the 2016 challenge is still in the planning stages, officials say it will likely take place early in the year when cold weather assists in bringing the reptiles out of hiding. Registration is expected to open this fall.

To keep up with developments on the challenge, visit its website. Sponsors are also being sought to help sweeten the pot for hunters. Information about sponsorship is available by emailing Tim O’Neil at toneil@wildlifeflorida.org.

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