The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is hosting a free python patrol training session on Thursday.
This training session is happening ahead of the 2024 Florida Python Challenge, which will run from Aug. 9 to 18.
Python Patrol is a no-cost training program that aims to create a network of individuals throughout south Florida who know how to identify Burmese pythons, and report sightings, as well as search for, safely capture and humanely kill the invasive constrictors.
These trainings are open and available to the public. No prior snake-handling experience is required.
Native snakes are beneficial to Florida's ecosystems due to their help with rodent control.
But, non-native snakes like the invasive Burmese Python found in the Everglades don't belong here. They pose threats to Florida's native wildlife through predation, competition and introduction of novel diseases and parasites.
The free event will be held Thursday between 7-8 p.m.
To sign up for the event, click here . To learn more and register for the 2024 Florida Python Challenge, click here .
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