Some areas of the United States have the legend of Big Foot in their backyards. In Southwest Florida, there is the elusive Skunk Ape. The hairy half human half animal beast is believed to be a cousin of the legendary Sasquatch. Local officials are having some fun with the local lure all month long. The Florida Skunk Ape search launches this week in Charlotte County, with a twist.
There have been sightings of Skunk Apes and swamp monsters for decades, and by some accounts even centuries. Every now and then a grainy photograph or video surfaces as alleged proof. But none of the mythical beings have been captured. The lure almost always resurfaces this time of year, for Halloween.
Back to the hunt in Charlotte County. It does not take place in the Florida Everglades or any other swampy area. The county's Land Management team is asking for help searching West County parks. They want to locate the Skunk Ape in connection with some vandalism. Insert twist number two. The vandalism is a series of pink hand prints. Those handprints are in honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Cancer can be just as scary as a swamp monster so it might seem fitting that officials have tied the two together.
How the Skunk Ape search works
To join the search, visit the west county parks and preserves. Then, keep you eyes peeled for th0se Skunk Ape hand prints. Finally, take a few photos and post on social media (@charcoparks) or email them to the city. You may get a Skunk Ape bumper sticker for participating. OK. So it might not be as thrilling as combing the swamps of the Florida Everglades. However, it is safer, more fun and an activity the entire family can enjoy.
“Come enjoy our parks and preserves and let’s have fun looking for the legendary Skunk Ape. You will absolutely enjoy your time in our wild lands,” said Senior Environmental Specialist Jason Thompson.
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.
