Alarming video of giant snake nest in unexpected location sparks fear: ‘They’re incredibly protective’

A new TV show sheds light on how much damage an invasive snake is doing to Florida ecosystems.

What’s going on?

ABC’s “Wildlife Nation: Expedition Florida” studied Burmese pythons in a recent episode. Researchers managed to find an ancient egg nest from which they could identify the scene.

“First of all, they’re incredibly protective. You don’t want to mess with a mother python.” in question Host Jeff Corwin.

They described how snakes, which generally cannot produce much of their own heat, shiver to keep eggs warm and keep them in a tight incubation. Burmese pythons lay between 12 and 36 eggs each spring.

Why are Burmese pythons important?

Researchers on the program were quick to point out that Burmese pythons are a big problem in Florida. As apex predators, their eggs do not encounter any serious predators, allowing their young to reproduce unchallenged.

Burmese pythons are considered one of the most invasive species in Florida (though not the top one). They were initially introduced into the state’s wild through the exotic pet trade, and the species has since outstripped all native animals in terms of vital resources.

The result was a 99% decline in raccoon and opossum populations and an 88% decline in bobcat populations. Swamp rabbits, cottontail rabbits, and foxes have completely disappeared from the state. US Geological Survey.

Florida’s climate allows pythons to survive for years, while states with colder winters are inhospitable. As average daily temperatures increase worldwide due to pollution, the range of areas where Burmese pythons can survive and breed may expand further into the country.

Declines in biodiversity caused by invasive species are causing a major loss of ecosystem services. Some studies suggest that over 50 years, invasive species have cost the world over a trillion dollars.

What is being done about Burmese pythons?

Florida has invested millions to eradicate Burmese pythons. Some partners are trying to commercialize the activity by collecting snake skins and producing finished products with them.

If you want to combat invasive species in your area, you can: take local action with volunteer groups working to remove nuisance fauna and flora and introduce a wider range of native species.

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