Since the 1980's, invasive Burmese pythons have been found in the South Florida Water Management canals and marshes. Now we are having to ask the question: Are invasive Burmese pythons extending their range from South Florida's Everglades ecosystem, to further north in the state? Reports of a 12 foot long, male python found on October 30, 2023 at the T.M. Goodwin Waterfowl Management Area in southern Brevard County along the Indian River County line, is a big reason for that question. This water management area is adjacent to the Stick Marsh and Headwaters Lake. It is only a few miles from Blue Cypress Lake, Lake Kenansville and Garcia Reservoir. All bodies of water in Indian River County near Fellsmere.
The python was over 100 miles away from the mass of the python invasion experienced in the Florida Everglades. Invasive critters are no new concept to Floridians. Our state is victim to over 500 types of invasives including green iguanas, Agama lizards, Egyptian geese, Muscovy ducks, Nile monitor lizards, cattle egrets, giant African snails, red imported fire ants, bufo toads, wild hogs and tegu lizards to name a few. Even our waters are not safe from invasion... with native aquatic life having to compete with lion fish, Mayan cichlids, clown knifefish, pacu, and peacock bass.
While we may not currently know the extent of the pythons invasion, our biggest hope, is that the colder climates will prevent large scale invasion of these, and other, tropical invasives into larger portions of the state.
What can you do about the invasive situation? Stay vigilant, and join the effort in removing nonnative wildlife. Give us a call for all of your nuisance wildlife issues at 305-255-7296 or 954-927-7296. Pesky Critters has highly trained trappers with live capture equipment to provide safe wildlife removals for the humans AND animals involved.
The FWC offers help as well for identifying what makes a nonnative species invasive: If they pose a threat to native species, local ecosystems, the economy and/or human health and safety.
1. Reporting nonnative species if you see them! Photos and exact location info are key.
2. Getting involved in removing nonnative species, such as invasive Burmese pythons or lionfish, to help protect native wildlife and habitats.
3. Rehoming a nonnative pet you can no longer care for through the FWC Exotic Pet Amnesty Program. Don’t EVER let it loose!