FLORIDA - Florida wildlife officials announced registration is now open for the 2026 Florida Python Challenge, a statewide competition aimed at removing invasive Burmese pythons from the Everglades and other environmentally sensitive areas across South Florida.
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the South Florida Water Management District, the annual event will run from July 10th through July 19th.
Participants from around the country are eligible to compete after completing required training and registration procedures established by state officials.
The challenge offers a total of $25,000 in prize money.
Officials said the grand prize winner will receive $10,000 for removing the highest number of Burmese pythons during the competition.
Additional cash prizes will be awarded in several categories, including novice and professional divisions.
Wildlife officials created the competition to help reduce the growing population of invasive Burmese pythons, which continue impacting native wildlife throughout the Everglades ecosystem.
Authorities said the snakes prey on birds, mammals and reptiles and have contributed to significant declines in several native animal populations across South Florida wetlands.
Participants are required to complete online safety and identification training before taking part in the challenge.
State officials also said hunters must follow all wildlife regulations and removal guidelines while operating in approved public land areas.
The Florida Python Challenge has drawn participants from across the United States in recent years, with previous competitions resulting in hundreds of invasive snakes being removed from the Everglades region.
Officials said the event also serves as an educational effort to increase public awareness about invasive species and environmental conservation efforts throughout Florida.