Police in Port St. Lucie, Florida say they have solved the mystery of disappearing cats throughout the city with the capture of a 12-foot Burmese python. The huge snake had been hiding in waist-high brush in the neighborhood and a dead cat was located not far from the snake in a vacant lot.
Invasive Species
Burmese pythons are among the largest in the world and are considered an invasive species in the state of Florida. The largest found in the state was more than 17 feet, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission believes that many of those found in the wild were introduced by pet owners who could no longer care for the reptiles when they grew too large. Others were freed when a breeding facility was destroyed by Hurricane Andrew in 1986.
Prey on Small Animals
Burmese pythons prey on small animals, birds and alligators. Because they are considered an invasive species, it is illegal to acquire them as pets. According to the National Park Service, more than 2,000 Burmese pythons have been removed from Everglades National Park where they prey on native wildlife and compete with natural predators. The snakes have a significant impact on Florida’s natural ecology.
Most Recent Capture
The most recent capture measured more than 12-feet in length and weighed more than 120 pounds, according to police. Police sergeant John Holman discovered the python and called for backup in order to capture the snake. It is not known if the snake was destroyed or taken to a wildlife sanctuary.
Neighbors say they are relieved that the large reptile has been captured. Wildlife experts say that the snakes remain a serious threat as one python can lay up to 20 to 80 eggs each spring. The United States Department of Agriculture has begun testing a trap in order to capture the snakes live, while the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission allows hunters with special permits to hunt the snakes during state-sanctioned hunts.
