The 2025 Florida Python Challenge: Women Dominate the Field
The year 2025 marked a significant milestone for the Florida Python Challenge,as it saw an unprecedented number of women dominating the field. With Burmese python hatchlings emerging from their eggs in large numbers, a record-breaking 294 pythons were removed from the wild in South Florida. Among them, Taylor Stanberry emerged as the Ultimate Grand Prize winner, taking home $10,000 for removing 60 pythons from the Everglades.
Following closely behind was professional python hunter Donna Kalil, who removed 56 pythons and won a prize of $2,500. The longest python prize was awarded to Kennith Chamberlaid for his impressive catch measuring at 9 feet and 8 inches.
Women Lead in Novice Category
In addition to dominating the overall challenge, women also took charge in the novice category. Krista Hoekstra won the Most Pythons Prize by removing an impressive total of 14 pythons from the Everglades. Kymberly Clark was named Most Pythons Runner-up with seven snakes removed from the wild. Michael Marousky claimed victory in longest python category with his catch measuring at an astounding length of 15 feet and 11 inches.
More Than 3 tons of Burmese Python Snakes removed From Southwest Florida This Season
Military Personnel Join the Fight Against invasive Species
The Florida Python Challenge also welcomed military personnel to participate in the hunt.John Southworth, a member of the US Army, took home $2,500 for removing five pythons from the wild. Matthew Jamison from the US Air Force was named runner-up and received a prize of $1,500 for removing three pythons. Jonathan Miller, also from the US Air Force, won $1,000 for catching an impressive 11 feet and 2 inches long python.
Cottonmouth Snakes: A Surprising Predator of Burmese Pythons in Florida Everglades
The Florida Python Challenge aims to raise awareness about invasive species in Florida and their impact on the stateS ecology. It also provides an chance for public involvement in reducing the population of wild Burmese pythons in South florida.
Burmese Pythons: A Threat to Florida’s Ecosystem
The Burmese python is just one among many invasive species found in Florida. Though, it is indeed a well-established species in the Florida Everglades, and authorities are actively working to reduce their numbers.
Recent evidence has shown that cottonmouth snakes, also known as water moccasins, are preying on baby Burmese pythons in the Everglades. This adds to the list of other animals such as American alligators, Gulf Coast indigo snakes, and bobcats that consume these invasive snakes. The Florida black bear is also believed to be a potential predator of burmese pythons.
Yes! Women paving the way for conservation efforts in Florida!