Fla. Python Hunt Continues With 21 Snakes Killed

MIAMI (CBSMiami/AP) — Florida's Burmese python hunt has netted 21 snakes in the first week of the month-long hunt, according to Florida wildlife officials.

The hunt started last weekend in an effort to rid the Everglades of the invasive species.

It's unknown how many pythons live in the Everglades. Even experienced hunters have a hard time spotting the snakes in the swamplands.

GALLERY: WILD PYTHON ENCOUNTERS

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said more than 1,000 people registered for the state's month-long "Python Challenge." The hunters may find more success if colder temperatures drive the snakes onto sunny surfaces.

The snakes killed since the contest began Saturday will be processed by the University of Florida. The state hopes to apply the data gleaned from the carcasses to management plans for the Everglades.

Officials say the large snakes are devouring native wildlife at an alarming rate.

The contest ends Feb. 10.

Click here for more info on the Python Challenge.

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