Florida python hunters get scary surprise while hunting for invasive predator snakes
A Florida-based python hunter has shared a video of the heart-stopping moment a Burmese python lunged at him and his camera crew.
A Florida-based python hunter has shared a video of the heart-stopping moment a Burmese python lunged at him and his camera crew.
Invasive Burmese pythons are becoming a more frequent sight in the high grasses of South Florida, but a recent encounter shows these snakes are just as comfortable hiding in trees.
On Wednesday, hunting guide Mike Kimmel, known as the Python Cowboy, shared a video on Facebook capturing a tense interaction with one of the snakes.
The video, filmed earlier this year, shows a python turning aggressive and lunging to bite after its hiding spot was discovered by Kimmels hunting dog, Otto.
We walked past this thing, like, three or four times, Kimmel said in the footage. I would have walked right past it again if it were not for this (hunting) dog.
A python hunter faces a heart-stopping moment as a Burmese python lunges at him
Hunting guide Mike Kimmel, known as the Python Cowboy, shared a Facebook video on October 9th of a tense encounter with a Burmese python that lunged aggressively after being discovered by his dog, Otto
As the hunters, including a participant from the TV show Swamp People: Serpent Invasion, attempted to capture the snake, it lashed out several times and even tried to climb higher to evade capture.
Kimmel eventually grabbed the snake by the head, revealing it to be a younger python, around four feet in length.
The little guys are the tough ones (to catch) because where to grab them is so small and theyre quick, Kimmel added in the clip.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has called for the removal of Burmese pythons from the wild due to their devastating impact on the Everglades ecosystem.
These nonvenomous snakes, which can grow up to 18 feet in Florida, prey on native wildlife, including deer, bobcats and alligators.
Experts believe the species proliferated in the region after escaping captivity or being released by pet owners.
Officials recommend that Burmese pythons be humanely euthanized when captured in the wild to help control their growing population.
The exact location of this particular hunt was not disclosed.
As the damage from Hurricane Milton is still being assessed, experts are warning of a potential increase in wildlife activity and advising residents to remain cautious and avoid interfering with animals.
As the damage from Hurricane Milton is still being assessed, experts are warning of a potential increase in wildlife activity
Animals such as alligators, bears, snakes and manatees may have been displaced or agitated by the storm
Animals such as alligators, bears, snakes and manatees may have been displaced or agitated by the storm.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission recommends staying alert and giving wildlife plenty of space. Its important to avoid attempting to rescue or assist animals during or after a storm, as this could put you at risk.
Severe weather conditions, such as high winds and flooding, can displace and disorient wildlife, granting them access to unusual areas.
The stress and confusion caused by storms and hurricanes often result in wildlife behaving differently, potentially exhibiting more aggressive tendencies than usual.
While only six of Floridas 44 snake species are venomous, the increased risk of encounters due to flooding makes it essential to maintain a safe distance. Snakes may seek shelter in debris or homes and can be found in unusual places.
Christopher Gillette, who works at Bellowing Acres Sanctuary, an alligator and exotic animal sanctuary, has warned that snakes who are displaced can often blend in among the debris or be found washed up in unusual places. He tells people to keep a sharp eye.
Keep in mind that the storm is going to send a lot of snakes on the move... there will be venomous snakes on the move as well. Watch your step, especially in those floodwaters, said Gillette
During storms, snakes can often be carried by flooding waters or cause them to seek shelter in debris, homes, sheds or barns
Keep in mind that the storm is going to send a lot of snakes on the move... there will be venomous snakes on the move as well. Watch your step, especially in those floodwaters. If youre doing your clean up after the storm, picking up branches, definitely watch where you put your hands - watch for snakes, he added.
Snakes are not aggressive toward humans unless they feel threatened, and usually would much rather avoid encounters. To best avoid snakes, the FWC suggests avoiding tall grass and keeping hands and feet out of areas you cant see.
Displaced wildlife, although not all pose a threat to humans safety, it is important to not attempt to rescue or help injured, orphaned or dead animals during or after storms if it endangers you.
