![Andrew Wyatt with "Ula," a reticulated python.](http://cdn2-b.examiner.com/sites/default/files/styles/image_content_width/hash/c1/3c/c13c16f2fdc59332150fe444d24fb390.jpg?itok=bR73ykrr "Andrew Wyatt with "Ula," a reticulated python.")
The grand total of 68 pythons taken in Florida during the recent python hunt is a very low number compared to claimed "problem" only in the southernmost part of the state. With 1600 hunters, the number would have been much higher if the population was present as claimed.
Controversy surrounds the science and motivation of a federal ban on owning pythons. Pythons are unable to survive winters outside the southern part of Florida due to being cold-blooded animals. A federal ban four species of snakes affects owners and breeders in all fifty states, even though there is no possibility of the snakes surviving except for the most southern regions. It is estimated around half the pythons in southern Florida were killed during previous years with unseasonably cold winters in southern Florida.
Andrew Wyatt, president of US Herp Alliance and past president of USARK, wrote on January 10, 2013, and it appears to be proven now: "I think it will be anti-climactic; in that I don't believe there has been as many pythons survive the cold as has been speculated, therefore not many will be caught. I think it is an excellent opportunity to educate the public as to the realities of pythons struggling to survive in a colder alien environment."
Only 68 pythons, with 1600 hunters, over the course of 30 days. Seems owners and breeders often know what they're talking about.
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