Hunters help to restore the natural habitat

November 1, 4:15 PMTampa Pet Rescue ExaminerBruny Hudson

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A three-month pilot program enacted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) to curb the proliferation and expansion of the Burmese python throughout Florida resulted in 15 permits to hunt the snakes and in the extermination of 37 snakes. From July 17, 2009, until Oct. 31, 2009, licensed hunters could pursue pythons and kill them with restricted devices in approved areas, adhering to specific procedures. The FWC is considering expanding the program and hopes to stop the nonnative Burmese python invading deeper and taking over Florida’s environment.

The Burmese python has become an unwelcome and destructive trespasser to the Florida habitat, ravaging and corrupting the native wildlife and endangering people and pets. Besides authorizing the hunting of the Burmese python in order to prevent further damage, the python permit program also allows scientists to obtain more information about the snake and its behavior to facilitate its extinction from Florida. If the so far acquired data prove to be constructive, the FWC will furnish a second issue of hunting licenses for the Burmese python in January of 2010.


For more information about the python permit program, go to:
http://www.myfwc.com/NEWSROOM/Resources/News_Resources_PythonPermitUpdates.htm