In addition, Hurricane Andrew, which hit Florida in 1992, is believed to have played a role in the establishment of pythons in the Everglades. The hurricane destroyed many homes and businesses, and it is thought that some pythons that were being kept as pets escaped during the storm. These pythons were able to find suitable habitat in the Everglades and they have since thrived.
Pythons are a threat to the native wildlife of the Everglades. They are voracious predators and they have been known to prey on a variety of animals, including birds, mammals, and reptiles. Pythons also compete with native predators for food and habitat.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is working to control the python population in the Everglades. The FWC has a python removal program in place, and it is also working to educate the public about the dangers of pythons.