Florida Python Challenge™ Tool Kit
Check out information and tools you’ll need to successfully compete during the Florida Python Challenge™:
- Read the Rules, take the Required Online Training and Register.
- Review specific area regulations and maps for the seven competition locations.
- Learn the best methods to search for and safely capture Burmese pythons by viewing optional training videos.
- Study the requirements for humane methods for killing pythons. Novice participants may not transport live pythons at any time.
- Find check station locations and hours, or visit a training outpost during opening weekend, August 9-11, 2024.
- Complete a datasheet for each Burmese python submitted to a check station.
- Know how to identify and protect scout snakes which may be found throughout Big Cypress National Preserve and Everglades and Francis S. Taylor, Holey Land, and Rotenberger WMAs. Do not harm or remove these snakes. To receive competition credit for a captured scout snake, take a picture of the external fluorescent orange or pink tag (near the head or tail) with the identification number and release the animal alive at the site of capture. Submit the photograph of the tag number with capture location (GPS) and date to bicy_python@nps.gov or melissamiller@ufl.edu within 24 hours of capture to receive credit for the capture. Participants do not need to measure the scout snake; the research agencies will provide the known lengths of any captured scout snakes.
- Learn to properly identify native and nonnative snakes. Participants will be disqualified if they kill a native snake.
- Visit the outfitters and guides page to hire a guide and gain hands-on experience.
- Conserve the biological diversity of all lands during the competition.
- Find answers to the most Frequently Asked Questions.
