Florida Python Challenge 2026: 280 Invasive Snakes Removed
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) announced the results of the 2026 Florida Python Challenge, where 907 participants from 30 states, Vietnam, and Canada removed 280 Burmese pythons from South Florida. The event, held over 10 days, aims to mitigate the impact of this invasive species on Florida's native wildlife. Tom Rahill won the $10,000 grand prize for removing 96 snakes, while Rahm Levinson received $1,000 for capturing the longest python at 16 feet, five inches. The challenge highlights ongoing efforts to control the python population, which has disrupted local ecosystems since their introduction in the 1970s. 
