One of Florida’s most anticipated events of the year is almost here — the 2025 Florida Python Challenge.

The Burmese python is a large, nonvenomous constrictor snake that is an invasive species in Florida. Burmese pythons were introduced to Florida through the pet trade in the 1970s and have since become well-established in the Everglades, posing a significant threat to the ecosystem.

They are native to India, lower China, the Malay Peninsula, and some islands of the East Indies. They are not protected in Florida except by anti-cruelty law and can be humanely killed on private property with landowner permission.

However, those new to the challenge might feel fearful about approaching a large snake. Some might have heard misinformation from terrified loved ones about these snakes hurting or even eating those who get too close.

Is that true? Here’s what to know.

Do Burmese pythons eat or kill humans?

These wild burmese pythons were used for a training session on how to capture pythons in the wild on Thursday Jan. 9. 2020. The session is held by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at Citrus Park in Bonita Springs. Several residents from the park are going on a hunt Friday to kick off the 2020 python bowl. The invasive species are taking over the everglades and efforts are underway to eradicate them.

No, they do not eat or kill human beings. As far as science knows, no Burmese python has ever killed a human here in Florida.

In Florida, Burmese pythons have been found to prey upon a variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and even alligators.

A significant reason people likely developed a fear of pythons eating humans is due to Hollywood — take these movies, for example:

  • Python (2000): This movie features a giant python that escapes from a research facility and begins hunting people in a small town.

  • Snakes on a Plane (2006), starring Samuel L. Jackson: Although not exclusively pythons, this film features a variety of snakes, including pythons, that are released on a plane to kill a witness.

The 1997 movie “Anaconda,” starring a then-unknown Jennifer Lopez, was also about a snake that killed humans, except it wasn’t a Burmese python.

How many people have been killed by Burmese pythons?

Burmese pythons have caused deaths before; however, such incidents are incredibly rare and involve snakes in captivity.

According to the journal Live Science, “Between 1978 and 2009, large constricting snakes killed 16 humans in the United States; at least seven of these deaths were attributed to captive Burmese pythons.”

What happens if you get bitten by a Burmese python?

Luckily, pythons found in the Everglades and other places in Florida are not venomous; however, the bites will still hurt and there can be blood.

In a May 2024 interview with the Naples Daily News, a USA TODAY Network newspaper, professional python hunter Amy Siewe said, “(Pythons) get you and don’t get me wrong – it hurts, but it bleeds so much. That is the most annoying thing. You get used to it. It is what it is. You don’t want to get bitten.”

What does a bite from a Burmese python look and feel like?

What is the Burmese python’s behavior like?

According to experts on Spruce Pets, Burmese snakes are actually docile for their size. However, they mention that the semiaquatic snakes are aggressive feeders. If owners only handle the snake or open its enclosure at meals, it may associate them with food.

“Handle these snakes frequently from a young age, or else they will be challenging to hold as they get larger,” Lianne McLeod, DVM, wrote. “Touch the snake gently but firmly, and be persistent if it resists at first. Avoid handling your snake for a couple of days after feeding, or it may regurgitate.”

What do Burmese pythons look like?

Spotted a Burmese python, other nonnative snake, tegu or monitor lizard? Report your sighting to our Invasive Species Hotline at 888-Ive-Got1 (483-4681).

Spotted a Burmese python, other nonnative snake, tegu or monitor lizard? Report your sighting to our Invasive Species Hotline at 888-Ive-Got1 (483-4681).

Burmese pythons are tan with dark blotches along the back and sides. The blotches look like puzzle pieces or the markings on a giraffe. They have a pyramid-shaped head with a dark, arrowhead-shaped wedge extending toward the nose.

They are one of the largest snakes in the world. Adult Burmese pythons caught in Florida average between 6 and 9 feet, and the largest one captured in Florida measured 19 feet.

Where are Burmese pythons found in Florida?

According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Burmese pythons are currently considered established from just south of Lake Okeechobee to Key Largo and from western Broward County west to Collier County. Some pythons have been found in Southwest Florida in Naples and near Lake Okeechobee.

What is the furthest north a python has been located?

A 2023 United States Geological Survey, or USGS, report shows that Burmese pythons are expanding their range so quickly that it can be marked in miles per year in some areas.

On Nov. 9, 2012, a Burmese python was removed from the outskirts of the state, just outside the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge. It’s unknown just how far north and west the snakes will travel, but some reports have suggested they’ll extend well beyond Florida’s state line.

How to report Burmese pythons

The Florida FWC advises that if you have a non-native species, do not release it. If you come across one, report it to the Invasive Species Hotline immediately at 888-Ive-Got1 (888-483-4681), providing an exact location and photos.

Sightings of other non-native species can be reported online at IveGot1.org or by using the free IveGot1 app.

What is the Florida Python Challenge?

The Florida Python Challenge is a 10-day competition created by FWC to encourage participants to remove pythons from commission-managed lands in South Florida. It will run from 12:01 a.m. Friday, July 11, 2025, to 5 p.m. Sunday, July 20, 2025, across eight competition locations.

According to the FWC, the event raises public awareness about invasive species in Florida, such as Burmese pythons, that threaten the Everglades ecosystem.

How to register for the 2025 Florida Python Challenge

To register as a novice or professional, potential participants must first read the rules, complete a free, required online training, and pass a quiz with a score of at least 85%. Those under 18 must have a parent or guardian complete their registration and be accompanied by a registered adult during the competition.

The registration cost is $25 and is non-refundable.

Participants can win money prizes in several categories, including a $10,000 ultimate grand prize.

Contributing: Mark H. Bickel, Fort Myers News-Press

This article originally appeared on Naples Daily News: Ahead of 2025 Florida python challenge, info about snake bites, venom

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