A new TV show reveals just how much damage invasive snakes are causing to Florida’s ecosystem.
What happened?
ABC’s “Wildlife Country: Florida Adventure” examined Burmese pythons in a recent episode. Researchers found an ancient egg nest and described the scene there.
“First of all, they’re incredibly protective. You don’t want to mess with the mother python,” host Jeff Corwin said.
They went on to describe how snakes, which typically don’t generate much heat, actually shiver to keep their eggs warm and hold on tightly until they hatch. Burmese pythons lay 12 to 36 eggs each spring.
Why are Burmese pythons important?
Researchers on the show are quick to emphasize that Burmese pythons are a huge problem in Florida. As an apex predator, their eggs do not face any serious predators, allowing their young to reproduce unhindered.
Burmese pythons are considered one of the most, if not the top, invasive species in Florida. They were first introduced into the state’s wild through the exotic pet trade, and the species has since surpassed all native animals in competition for vital resources.
The result was a 99% reduction in raccoon and opossum populations, and an 88% reduction in bobcat populations. Swamp rabbits, cottontail rabbits and foxes have completely disappeared from the state, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
Florida’s climate allows pythons to survive for many years, while states with colder winters would be uninhabitable. However, as pollution causes average daily temperatures to rise around the world, the range of areas where Burmese pythons can survive and breed is likely to expand further into the country.
Biodiversity decline caused by invasive species results in a dramatic loss of ecosystem services. Some studies suggest that over a 50-year period, invasive species caused more than a trillion dollars in damage globally.
What measures are being taken against Burmese pythons?
Florida has invested millions of dollars to eradicate Burmese pythons. Some partners have been trying to commercialize the activity by harvesting snake skins and making finished products from them.
If you’re interested in combating invasive species in your area, you can take local action with volunteer groups working to remove harmful flora and fauna and introduce more native species.
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