One of Florida’s most anticipated events of the year is almost here — the 2026 Florida Python Challenge.
The Burmese python is a large, nonvenomous constrictor snake that is an invasive species in Florida. Burmese pythons were introduced to Florida through the pet trade in the 1970s and have since become well-established in the Everglades, posing a significant threat to the ecosystem.
They are native to India, lower China, the Malay Peninsula, and some islands of the East Indies. They are not protected in Florida except by anti-cruelty law and can be humanely killed on private property with landowner permission.
However, those new to the challenge might feel fearful about approaching a large snake. Some might have heard misinformation from terrified loved ones about these snakes hurting or even eating those who get too close.
Is that true? Here’s what to know.
Do Burmese pythons eat or kill humans?
No, they do not eat or kill human beings. As far as science knows, no Burmese python has ever killed a human here in Florida.
In Florida, Burmese pythons have been found to prey upon a variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and even alligators.
A significant reason people likely developed a fear of pythons eating humans is due to Hollywood — take these movies, for example:
The 1997 movie “Anaconda,” starring a then-unknown Jennifer Lopez, was also about a snake that killed humans, except it wasn’t a Burmese python.
Has anyone been killed by Burmese pythons?
No, they do not eat or kill human beings. As far as science knows, no Burmese python has ever killed a human here in Florida.
Burmese pythons have caused deaths before; however, such incidents are incredibly rare and only involve snakes in captivity, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
What happens if you get bitten by a Burmese python?
Luckily, pythons found in the Everglades and other parts of Florida are not venomous; however, their bites still hurt and may cause bleeding.
In a May 2024 interview with the Naples Daily News, a USA TODAY Network newspaper, professional python hunter Amy Siewe said, “(Pythons) get you and don’t get me wrong – it hurts, but it bleeds so much. That is the most annoying thing. You get used to it. It is what it is. You don’t want to get bitten.”
What does a bite from a Burmese python look and feel like?
What is the Burmese python’s behavior like?
According to experts on Spruce Pets, Burmese snakes are actually docile for their size. However, they mention that the semiaquatic snakes are aggressive feeders. If owners only handle the snake or open its enclosure at meals, it may associate them with food.
“Handle these snakes frequently from a young age, or else they will be challenging to hold as they get larger,” Lianne McLeod, DVM, wrote. “Touch the snake gently but firmly, and be persistent if it resists at first. Avoid handling your snake for a couple of days after feeding, or it may regurgitate.”
What is a python’s habitat?
The large snakes typically live in rainforests near streams, although they have been known to survive in a variety of habitats, such as grasslands, swamps and rocky foothills.
In Florida, the FWC notes that Burmese pythons are semi-aquatic and are often found near or in water.
What is the Florida Python Challenge?
The Florida Python Challenge is a 10-day competition created by FWC to encourage participants to remove pythons from commission-managed lands in South Florida. It will run from 12:01 a.m. July 10 and ends at 5 p.m. on July 19 across eight competition locations.
According to the FWC, the event raises public awareness about invasive species in Florida, such as Burmese pythons, that threaten the Everglades ecosystem.
In 2025, there were 934 total registered participants from 30 states and Canada. Competitors removed a record 294 pythons.
How to register for the 2025 Florida Python Challenge
To register as a novice or professional, potential participants must first read the rules, take a free, required online training and pass a quiz with at least 85%. Those under 18 must have a parent or guardian complete their registration and be accompanied by a registered adult during the competition.
The registration fee is $25 and is nonrefundable.
What should you do if you see a Burmese python?
The Florida FWC advises that if you have a non-native species, do not release it. If you come across one, report it to the Invasive Species Hotline immediately at 888-Ive-Got1 (888-483-4681), providing an exact location and photos.
Pythons must be humanely killed onsite at the time of capture. Live transport of pythons is not allowed.
The FWC says you can humanely kill Burmese pythons on private land at any time with landowner permission. You don’t need a permit to kill the invasive species.
Here are the basic guidelines from the Fish and Wildlife Commission:
Contributing: Mark H. Bickel, Fort Myers News-Press and Jennifer Borresen, USA TODAY
Samantha Neely is a trending reporter for the USA TODAY NETWORK-Florida, covering pop culture, theme parks, breaking news and more. You can get all of Florida’s best content directly in your inbox each weekday by signing up for the free newsletter, Florida TODAY, at https://floridatoday.com/newsletters.
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Do Burmese pythons attack, or even eat, humans? Python Challenge dates
Reporting by Samantha Neely, USA TODAY NETWORK – Florida / Palm Beach Post
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
