Python Found in Residential Area in Miami

Although experienced in handling snakes, Shaw’s encounter with a Burmese python in a neighborhood setting was uncommon and raised concerns. These snakes, considered invasive since their introduction in the 1970s, have significantly increased their population across South Florida.

Experts note that while these constrictors rarely threaten humans directly, they pose a severe threat to native wildlife. Studies have recorded declines in species like bobcats, deer, raccoons, and foxes, as the pythons can survive and reproduce with minimal natural predators in the region.

To control the python population, efforts have been ongoing for decades, but results remain uncertain. Since 2017, over 16,000 of these snakes have been removed during various eradication programs, with more than 1,400 taken out during annual challenges organized by wildlife authorities.

Population estimates from 2013 ranged between 30,000 and 150,000, although recent counts are inconsistent. Residents are encouraged to report sightings to aid in tracking and managing the spread of this invasive species.

Reports of sightings can be made to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Exotic Species Hotline at 888-483-4681. Captured pythons are intended to be humanely euthanized; no permit is required for residents or hunters involved in removal.

There is also a compensation program to incentivize hunting, including prizes like the recent $10,000 awarded for capturing 60 pythons in the 2025 challenge. During that event, a record 294 pythons were removed over ten days.

The dates for next year’s Florida Python Challenge have yet to be announced, but the event is typically held during the summer months.