Hunters and adventurers alike are gearing up for the Python Challenge, a 10-day event emphasizing safety for both hunters and the surrounding species.
Amy Siewe, a seasoned python huntress, shared crucial safety tips for participants.
"The problem right now is that we've got thousands of baby python hatchlings coming out," said Siewe. "The baby pythons are two feet long out of the egg, which is literally as big as a lot of our native snakes."
Siewe highlighted the risks of misidentifying snakes, which can be dangerous for both the hunter and the snakes themselves.
"People that don't see these snakes on a regular basis... Sometimes it is very difficult to identify venomous from non-venomous from python," said Siewe. "All of the native snakes here are part of our ecosystem, and they all play an important role, and it's very important that we keep them alive and we don't kill them."
She also emphasized hunter safety, especially with the presence of venomous snakes in Florida.
"We have four venomous snakes down here in Florida," said Siewe. "It is very important that unless you are 100% sure you know what it is that you do not pick it up, it is not worth it."
Among the venomous snakes is the cottonmouth, which hunts pythons.
"We actually found one in a cottonmouth," said Siewe. "The best thing to do is literally have a picture of a python with you. The good news is the juvenile patterns and the adult patterns on the pythons are exactly the same."
Siewe also warned about the quick bite of a python.
"It's a really quick strike. It stings. Then the pain is kind of over, but then you bleed a lot," said Siewe. "But sometimes we can't see where the head is, so you just have to grab what you can grab. And whatever happens, happens."
The Python Challenge will conclude on July 20, with a $10,000 cash prize for the winner.