Python Q&A: Are these invasive snakes starting to slither more northward in Florida?
Note to readers: The Naples Daily News and News-Press are asking experts questions about Burmese Pythons in 2024. The invasive python is wreaking havoc with the ecosystem in southern parts of Florida. We recently submitted a list of questions to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). McKayla Spencer, FWC Nonnative Fish and Wildlife Program Coordinator. answered the questions. We will share all the questions and answers in the coming weeks.
If you have a python question you can send an email to mbickel@gannett.com.
More: Python Q&A series asks if cold weather in Florida is a python's friend or foe?
Q. What's the latest on 'new areas of establishment' for pythons? Are more of these invasive snakes moving north?
FWC: Burmese pythons are currently considered established from just south of Lake Okeechobee to Key Largo and from western Broward County west to Collier County.
Any pythons found outside of those areas are likely escaped or released captive animals.
The FWC evaluates new reports of pythons from areas outside what is considered the currently established range and releases new information as it is confirmed regarding new locations of establishment and range changes.
Due to the cryptic nature of pythons it can take a while to gather enough evidence to confirm new areas of establishment.
This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Are burmese pythons moving north in Florida
