200-pound python killed in Okeechobee, FL

[RockaFowler]

http://www.tcpalm.com/news/2009/jul/31/200-pound-python-captured-in-okeechobee/

OKEECHOBEE COUNTY — A 17-foot-long, 207-pound male Burmese python was killed near a veterinary clinic Thursday.

SNIP

Trappers, who are working under permits granted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to capture and kill loose pythons near the Everglades, said the reptile was not tagged.

SNIP

“The capture of this large python shows us how well these snakes can thrive in the wild and create a dangerous situation after illegal release or escape,” commission chairman Rodney Barreto said.

The snake’s stomach contents were examined, but nothing identifiable was found inside.

Thursday’s capture was the fifth since the commission began issuing the permits on July 17.

[WillieW]

1. A problem when pet snakes get too large and then being released

These huge snakes have become detrimental to local wildlife. They even take on Alligators.

[HopeHoops]

5. Somewhere I have a picture of a python/alligator mutual death.

It was in a Florida wetland. The python had swallowed the alligator, but it fought to get out and split open the snake. Both died. Looked pretty messy.

[Poiuyt]

2. Remind me to stay away from Okeechobee County

[RockaFowler]

4. They are all over South Florida

That is the largest I have ever heard of, though

[ccharles000]

3. k/r

[Lord Helmet]

6. 207 lbs? dayum

[FarCenter]

8. That thar's sum good eatin!

Floridians should eat more python instead of horses.

[TexasObserver]

7. The importation of such foreign snakes should be outlawed.

And ownership of them outlawed. They're a public hazard, and so are their owners.

[malaise]

9. It's that simple n/t