McKayla Spencer, with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation as the Interagency Python Management Coordinator, works with a Burmese python used to train dogs to detect them in the Florida Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
Back in 2023 the Florida Python Challenge wrapped up in the Florida Everglades with over 200 Burmese Pythons removed. More than 1,000 python hunters from 35 states All of them were out there hunting, trying to score prize money. Naples News reports that the winner, Paul Hobbs, captured 20 pythons and took home a cash prize of $10,000. The dates for the 2024 challenge have not yet been set.
Florida Python hunting isn't just a once a year thing.
So, The South Florida Water Management District sponsors an ongoing 'Python Elimination Program' and is searching for "a limited number of public-spirited individuals to humanely euthanize these destructive snakes which have become an invasive apex predator in the Everglades. The program provides access to python removal agents on designated lands in Monroe, Miami-Dade, Broward, Collier, Hendry, Lee, and Palm Beach counties."
So how much do you get paid to hunt the Florida Python?
- An hourly rate ($13.00 per hour or $18.00 per hour depending on the area) for up to ten (10) hours each day while actively searching for pythons on designated lands.
- An additional incentive payment of $50.00 for each python measuring up to four (4) feet plus an extra $25.00 for each foot measured above four (4) feet. See example below:
- An additional $200.00 for each verified active nest.
Before you rush in, here's the qualifications:
- Be at least eighteen (18) years of age
- Possess a valid driver's license
- Possess a valid email address
- Have a bank account for direct deposit
- Have an iOS or Android mobile device that allows for download and utilization of the required Program Software
- Consent to be tracked using the GPS tracking app
- Sign a waiver of liability
- Have not been convicted of a felony or wildlife-related offense within the last seven (7) years
- Consent to submit to a criminal background check
- Consent to using the program software
- You want in? Apply Here
- Last updated: March 22nd, 2024
As you can see, you CAN make Florida python hunting into a full time job. But keep in mind before you head off into the swamp - it can get pretty wild down here.
5 Unbelievable Florida Python Hunting Videos You Need To See
Pythons are a part of living in Southwest Florida and the Florida Everglades. They show up in people's garages and swimming pools. In addition, they are destroying parts of the eco system of the Everglades because they have become so invasive. You can obtain a license and hunt them in Florida and every year the state hosts a competition. The competition might be over but the hunting continues. Check out these unbelievable Florida Python hunting videos for TikTok Tuesday.
The annual Python Challenge takes place every September with $10,000 up for grabs. People come to the Sunshine State from all over the world to participate. However, you can obtain a license from the state to hunt year round. You have to dispose of the snakes humanly. Some hunters take their skins and have made some really interesting clothing, jewelry and accessories from them.
Florida Python Hunting Videos
During this year's Python Challenge my TikTok feed was full of snake videos. I just kept scrolling. They can be a little intense sometimes. I'm not sure why I stopped on them over the weekend. Perhaps it is because I'm on a fund raising committee for an upcoming event where python hunting is one of the auction items. I've seen these auction lots go for big bucks.
Warning, if you are squeamish when it comes to reptiles, this might make your skin crawl. But then again, it's hard not to look. All of these videos are office friendly, no curse words that I heard. I would for sure be screaming them if I encountered one of these monsters outside of a controlled environment. You don't have to have a TikTok account to view the videos. Just scroll down and hit play from this post. Check out these unbelievable Florida Python hunting videos for TikTok Tuesday.
Why Are We Hunting These Reptiles?
This video offers a great back story as to why people are hunting snakes in the first place. The population has become out of control and are eating everything in the Everglades, upsetting the eco system. Don't release them if you have one as a pet. This is what happens.
https://www.tiktok.com/@conserve2preserve/video/7081071788960075050?_t=8gAqqSKjHIs&_r=1
Whoa This One Is Intense
Looks like a sci-fi movie with his body flailing in the water. However, it is a great way to trick a snake in order to catch him or her. Offer up some live bait, set a trap and see what happens. Crazy.
This Teenager Bags His First Snake
Hunting is for all ages. Once you learn the technique. I've seen videos where people actually suffer a bite. However, I didn't want to post bloody hands and arms. Just know, it does happen if you don't grab the head just right. No thank you to that risk.
Ever See A Python On The Side Of The Road
Only in Florida. I've seen them on the pavement early in the morning when driving across Alligator Alley. I guess they are trying to get warmth from the road. However, I've never seen anyone pull over to wrestle one down. This is crazy.
Look At The Size Of This One
These snakes grow to become monstrous in size. That is one reason they are so fascinating and why some love to take on the challenge of catching one. They are also quite powerful. Look at the length of this snake. Can you imagine seeing it in your backyard or while on a hike.
