Miami Aug 7 (US): Over 800 competitors will roam the Florida Everglades for eight days, searching for invasive Burmese pythons that will fetch thousands of dollars in prize money.
Snake hunting officially began Friday morning and continues until 5 p.m. on August 15, according to officials gathered in Miami to start the annual event.
“This is important because every snake removed is a less invasive species that preys on our native birds, mammals and reptiles,” Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis said, according to The Associated Press.
Since 2000, more than 17,000 snakes have been removed from the Everglades ecosystem, according to a press release. Burmese pythons, which are not native to Florida, prey on birds, mammals, and other reptiles. A female snake can lay up to 100 eggs per year.
Officials said cash prizes of up to $2,500 are available in the Professional and Novice categories for those who remove the most snakes. There are additional prizes for the longest python in each category. Each snake must be dead, as hunters face disqualification if they kill them inhumanely or kill a domestic snake.
To date, registered fishermen represent 32 states and Canada. The cost of registration is $25 and participants must complete an online course.