Python Hunters Get Go-Ahead

Let the python hunt begin.

Beginning today, Florida Wildlife officials are allowing hunters with permits to traipse through the Everglades in a search and destroy mission to eradicate the non-native reptiles.

Without traps or guns, a small group of snake experts will be fanning out in search of some of the 150,000 or so Burmese Pythons running loose in Florida.

The hunters will have to photograph any python captured, as well as take measurements and examine the stomach contents.

The program is supposed to run for the next three and a half months, but could be extended if successful.

Officials have said that the emergence of the snakes have threatened native species, and just weeks ago a toddler was killed in central Florida when a pet python strangled her.  

The pythons were introduced into Florida by owners who ditched them and many escaped in the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew, according to officials.

Copyright Associated Press / NBC 6 Miami

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