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Published on 04/23/10

U.S. Fish and Wildlife proposes ban of constrictor snakes

Florida weather is not just a tourist attraction for humans. Large constrictor snakes, like the Burmese python, find the state very comfortable, too. These invasive species are well established in the Florida Everglades and are spreading farther and farther north within Florida.

Constrictor snakes can kill and eat anything from white-tail deer to endangered species such as the Key Largo woodrat.

To help alleviate this problem, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed to ban the import and interstate transport of nine species of giant constrictor snakes. This includes the boa constrictor, four species of anaconda and four species of python.

A public comment period expires May 11, after which, the agency will review its options and consider whether to push forward with the regulations.

To make a comment, go to regulations.gov and search for proposed rule 04956.

Experts/Sources:
Chuck Bargeron
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