In just a few short weeks, the vast and vital Everglades ecosystem will become the focal point of a critical conservation effort as the 2025 Florida Python Challenge kicks off. From July 11-20, participants will brave the wilds of South Florida with a shared mission: to help protect native wildlife by removing invasive Burmese pythons, all while competing for a share of $25,000 in prizes.
This year’s 10-day competition, hosted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the South Florida Water Management District, marks an exciting expansion, with Everglades National Park joining as one of eight official Florida Python Challenge locations. This addition provides even more opportunities for participants to make a significant impact on the delicate balance of the Everglades.
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The stakes are high, with an Ultimate Grand Prize of $10,000 awaiting the registered participant who removes the most pythons. Beyond the top prize, competitors can vie for other cash awards for the most and longest pythons removed across three distinct categories: Novice, Professional, and Military.
The Florida Python Challenge is an initiative to raise awareness about the devastating impact of invasive species. Burmese pythons, non-native to Florida, pose a serious threat to the state’s native wildlife populations by preying on birds, mammals, and even alligators.
For those intrigued by the prospect of contributing to this important conservation effort, it’s not too late to register. Prospective participants can visit FLPythonChallenge.org to sign up for the competition and complete the mandatory online training.
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The website also offers valuable resources for learning more about Burmese pythons, the Everglades ecosystem, additional training options, and tips for planning a trip to South Florida for the Challenge.
Beyond the annual competition, the FWC encourages year-round involvement in invasive species removal. Burmese pythons can be humanely killed on private lands at any time with landowner permission – no permit or hunting license is required.
The FWC emphasizes the importance of removing and humanely killing invasive pythons from private lands whenever possible, and year-round python removal opportunities are also available on 32 FWC-managed lands.
As July approaches, anticipation builds for the 2025 Florida Python Challenge™. It’s a call to action for conservationists, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone passionate about protecting Florida’s natural heritage.
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