Burmese python hatchlings on the move
Please don’t confuse them with our native snakes!
Burmese python eggs are starting to hatch. At birth many of these hatchlings are up to two feet long, already the size of many full-grown native snakes. Conservancy of Southwest Florida biologist Ian Bartoszek says it is unlikely most of us will ever encounter a python, but many people are afraid. Unfortunately native snakes are on the receiving end of these fears.
“Pythons get a lot of attention because of their size,” said Bartoszek. “Unfortunately many native snakes are misidentified as small pythons.”
“The most important thing we want people to know is please, never harm any snake. It is most likely you’ll hurt a native animal instead,” said Bartoszek. “Pythons are not venomous snakes and they do not want to be near humans.”
We to remind the general public the vast majority of snakes are native and are necessary for Southwest Florida’s ecological balance. Pythons, because they have few-if any-natural predators, are causing problems for native wildlife and the environment, not people.
However, hatchlings may begin to show up on rural roads, often moving at night. Burmese pythons are tan in color with dark blotches on the back and sides that are irregular shaped and fit together like puzzle pieces. Burmese pythons have a dark brown arrowhead shape on top of their head and a dark wedge behind the eye.
Examples of Burmese python head pictured below.
Conservancy of Southwest Florida biologists and partner groups are working to study this invasive species to help identify population management strategies.
How you can help
If you see what appears to be a python, take photos and note your location. Be as specific as possible. Report it on the www.ivegot1.org site. If you’re standing near a large-invasive snake call 1–888-IVE-GOT1 — a trained professional will help identify the type of snake.
Location information helps researchers document areas the snakes may be spreading in order to help manage population growth.
Python hatchling facts
- Python gestation period is about two months
- The average clutch ranges from 20–64 eggs
- Hatchlings are about two-feet long at birth
