Did the cold weather affect the conditional reptile population?
The cold snap in January and February dramatically reduced the numbers of Burmese pythons in the wild. Based on observations and reports from python removal permit holders, biologists and hunters, the FWC believes 50 percent of the wild Burmese python population died as a result of the record cold weather. The FWC believes seasonal kills are beneficial in helping to control nonnative reptile populations. Since the cold snap occurred during the pythons’ mating season, it is further hoped that this year’s reproductive season has been hindered. However, a portion of the population did survive and still poses a threat to South Florida if not managed properly.
