Get ready for the 2024 Florida Python Challenge™, starting at midnight on August 9th! Hundreds have signed up for a chance to win up to $10,000 while protecting Florida’s native wildlife and the Everglades.
This annual competition, supported by Governor Ron DeSantis and multiple organizations, aims to raise awareness about invasive species and encourage public involvement in conservation efforts.
“Florida’s incredible natural resources are like nowhere else in the world. Governor Ron DeSantis’ support has been critical in our efforts to remove and manage harmful, invasive species such as Burmese pythons,” said FWC Executive Director Roger Young.
“Thanks to our partners and Governor DeSantis’ support, the Florida Python Challenge™ has become a catalyst for people to learn more about the threats of invasive species in the state and how they can help protect our native wildlife and unique ecosystems.”
“The iconic Everglades is a national treasure and the Florida Python Challenge™ is a great way to get the public involved in understanding the unique Everglades ecosystem. Removing invasive pythons from across the Greater Everglades Ecosystem is critical, and we must do everything we can to combat this invasive species,” said South Florida Water Management District Governing Board Member “Alligator Ron” Bergeron.
“We continue to expedite Everglades restoration efforts thanks to the support of Governor Ron DeSantis and we’ll continue working to protect south Florida’s natural resources. Thank you to all the staff from the South Florida Water Management District and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission who worked to facilitate this year’s python challenge. Long live the Everglades!”
The event runs until August 18th, and late registration is still possible at FLPythonChallenge.org.
Prizes totaling $25,000 will be awarded, with the top prize going to the participant who removes the most pythons. Visit the website for details and resources to help you compete!
This article by Coty Hamlin was first published by The Tampa Free Press on 8 August 2024. Lead Image: UF/IFAS wildlife biologist, Michelle Bassis, holds a large female Burmese pythons captured near one of our tagged male pythons in Everglades Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area.
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