Florida’s Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez has officially opened registration for the highly anticipated 2024 Florida Python Challenge. This unique event invites participants to take action against invasive Burmese pythons, all while competing for a chance to win over $25,000 in prizes.

The 2024 Florida Python Challenge aims to tackle the invasive Burmese python population in the wild. Here are the key details:

  • Objective: Participants must remove invasive Burmese pythons from their natural habitat.
  • Prizes: Over $25,000 is up for grabs for successful participants.
  • Competition Dates: Mark your calendars for August 9–18, 2024.
  • Eligibility: The challenge is open to both professional snake hunters and novice enthusiasts.

How to Get Involved

  1. Register: Visit the official Florida Python Challenge website to sign up.
  2. Training: Complete the required online training to prepare for the intense 10-day competition.
  3. Python Hunt: Armed with knowledge and determination, participants will hit the field to track down and remove these invasive reptiles.

Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez expressed her enthusiasm for the challenge: “Thanks to Governor DeSantis’ unwavering dedication to Everglades restoration, Florida continues to make record investments in protecting the state’s unique natural resources for future generations. The targeted removal of the invasive Burmese python is a crucial part of this effort. I wish all participants a memorable and safe hunt, and I look forward to congratulating this year’s winners.”

Roger Young, Executive Director of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), highlighted the significance of public involvement: “Thanks to Governor Ron DeSantis and our partners with the South Florida Water Management District, FWC is once again hosting the world-famous Florida Python Challenge®. This event allows the public to get involved in protecting our native wildlife while competing to win thousands of dollars for their efforts removing Burmese pythons from our iconic Florida Everglades ecosystem—a place like nowhere else on Earth.”

The collaboration between the South Florida Water Management District and FWC remains critical in safeguarding the Greater Everglades Ecosystem. Their joint efforts continue to expedite Everglades restoration and combat invasive pythons.