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Harvesting Pythons in South Florida | ||
The FWC reminds hunters they may continue to take Burmese pythons and all other reptiles of concern within three South Florida wildlife management areas (WMAs). An FWC executive order effectively gives all persons with a hunting license and a $26 management area permit the authority to harvest pythons and other reptiles of concern (Indian python, reticulated python, northern and southern African rock python, amethystine or scrub python, green anaconda and Nile monitor lizard) on Everglades and Francis S. Taylor, Holey Land and Rotenberger WMAs from now through April 17 between one-half hour before sunrise and one-half hour after sunset. All legal methods for taking alligators and game animals (including shotguns, rimfire rifles and pistols) may be used to take reptiles of concern. Centerfire rifles, however, are not allowed. Nets and snares also may be used, but no matter the method of take, all reptiles of concern must be euthanized on site. Reptiles of concern may not be taken out of the WMAs alive and must be reported to the FWC within 36 hours by calling, toll-free, 866-392-4286, or by completing the online form. Hunters may do what they wish with the reptile's skin and meat. However, according to the National Park Service, mercury testing on two dozen captured Burmese pythons in Everglades National Park revealed extraordinarily high levels of mercury in the meat – levels well above what is considered safe to eat. Officials estimate there are thousands of Burmese pythons in the wild in South Florida. The FWC's goal is to contain the spread of these pythons in the wild and prevent establishment of other reptiles of concern. Data collected by hunters on these state-managed lands will assist in preventing their northern movement.
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Our mission: Managing fish and wildlife resources for their long-term well-being and the benefit of people.
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