Everglades National Park Now an Official Competition Site
The 2025 Florida Python Challenge™ is just around the corner, and residents across Florida—and beyond—are gearing up to make a difference in the fight against invasive species.
From July 11 through July 20, participants will have ten days to remove as many invasive Burmese pythons as possible from Florida’s environment, particularly in and around the Everglades. This year’s competition comes with a total of $25,000 in prizes, including a $10,000 Ultimate Grand Prize for the individual who removes the most pythons. For the first time, Everglades National Park is officially included as one of eight designated competition areas.
Hosted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the South Florida Water Management District, the Python Challenge aims to raise awareness about the serious threat Burmese pythons pose to Florida’s native wildlife.
Competitors can win additional cash prizes in categories such as:
Most pythons removed Longest python removed With divisions for novices, professionals, and military members, there are opportunities for a wide range of participants to get involved.
How to Register
Interested participants can register and complete the required online training at FLPythonChallenge.org. The site also includes helpful resources on Burmese pythons, the Everglades ecosystem, and travel planning for the competition.
Year-Round Removal Still Encouraged
Can’t join in July? The FWC reminds Floridians that python removal is allowed year-round on 32 Commission-managed lands. In addition, Burmese pythons can be humanely killed on private property with landowner permission—no permit or hunting license required.
Why It Matters
Burmese pythons are a non-native species that have been wreaking havoc on Florida’s native wildlife, especially in South Florida. These large constrictors prey on birds, mammals, and reptiles, and a single female can lay over 100 eggs in one breeding season. Since 2000, more than 23,000 pythons have been removed from the wild, but the threat remains.
For more information about Burmese pythons and Florida’s ongoing response, visit MyFWC.com/Python.
