Florida is an ideal habitat for a variety of reptile species. Unfortunately, this allows exotic snakes and lizards to live in South Florida. Pet owners often release exotic species into the environment due to its large size or inability to take care of it. Hurricanes are also to blame in this environmental issue; storms causing damage to homes have allowed pets to escape into the wild. Over the years, the growing number of exotic species found in the Everglades have escalated. Exotic reptiles found in this sensitive wetland have harmed native wildlife in large numbers. Monitor Lizards and multiple species of pythons that originate from South America and Africa are examples of exotic reptiles that are found in the Everglades today.
On the CBS news website, I reviewed an article titled "Monthlong Florida Python Hunt Begins." Florida issued a Python hunting season that includes the harvesting of Burmese pythons, Indian pythons, African pythons, Green Anacondas, and Nile Monitor Lizards. Hunters can kill as much as possible during this monthlong exotic reptile hunting season.
While reading this article, I definitely support the state's decision to eradicate these exotic animals. Although some may feel they can be captured and released to their native habitat (which I also agree), the hunting season can also draw in money. The money is then used for environmental protection of our wetlands and other threatened habitats. I feel the state needs to be more strict with exotic pet owners as well as the importation of exotic animals into our state. I hope over time these snakes can be removed from the Everglades, but it will be a tough challenge.
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