Experts say that Burmese pythons are silently wreaking havoc on the Everglades, one of South Florida’s most delicate ecosystems. These invasive snakes have significantly impacted the region, making it rare to spot any mammals in some parts of Everglades National Park.
The landscape of South Florida, known for its alligators and wading birds, is now home to thousands of these invasive pythons. Biologists report that the snakes have wiped out native wildlife, causing a cascade of ecological damage.
Mike Kirkland, lead invasive animal biologist for South Florida Water Management, highlighted the severity of the situation.
"At Everglades National Park, we’re seeing up to 95% reduction of fur-bearing animals," said Kirkland.
"It is very difficult to find a single native mammal, a single raccoon, possum, fox, deer, squirrel," he said. "That is because of the python invasion, they have decimated our native wildlife in the southern Everglades, and it's become a real emergency situation."
The issue extends beyond the Everglades. Experts have spotted pythons farther north, with established populations in Charlotte County and reports of sightings in Lee and Collier counties.