Where to encounter a Burmese python

Where might a hiker encounter a Burmese python? Thankfully, the range – despite recent scares of big snakes in Central Florida, which were pets that were let loose – of the “naturalized” pythons is, according to sources at Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission, not too far north.

“Wild pythons have been found up to about 15 miles north of Tamiami Trail. The main WMAs where pythons can be sighted are Southern Glades, Everglades and Francis S. Taylor and Big Cypress. The main population is in Everglades National Park. It’s doubtful but some may be seen in Holey Land and Rotenberger WMAs.”

Here’s a map of Burmese python sightings reported to FWC.