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Wildlife Officials To Release Fake Snakes Around State

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TALLAHASSEE (CBSMiami/AP) — Florida wildlife officials are employing a unique strategy in an attempt to raise awareness about non-native species by releasing fake snakes around state landmarks.

It began Tuesday and is part of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Python Challenge to promote Everglades conservation efforts. The python removal competition in South Florida kicks off Jan. 16 and ends Feb. 14.

Officials hope the hunt will remind residents that they can get involved and help be part of the solution in dealing with invasive Florida species, like Burmese pythons.

To report non-native fish and wildlife, you can call the FWC's Invasive Species Hotline at 888-IVE-GOT1 (888-483-4681). Or report your sighting online at IveGot1.org and with the IveGot1 smartphone app.

(TM and © Copyright 2015 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2015 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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