Nearly 300 invasive pythons removed in conservation hunt
August 15, 2025 - A record 294 Burmese pythons were removed during the 2025 Florida Python Challenge, sponsored by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. During the 10-day competition, 934 participants from 30 states and Canada scoured the Everglades in search of the invasive snake, which is secretive and not easily located. The Grand Prize winner was awarded $10,000 for removing 60 pythons. “The record number of pythons removed highlights the importance of citizen engagement,” said Pedro Ramos, superintendent of Everglades National Park, “as we tackle one of the toughest conservation challenges of our time, invasive exotic species of animals and plants.”