The 2025 Florida Python Challenge™ has come to a close, but  efforts to combat invasive Burmese pythons continue.

An innovative new tool is being used to remove these destructive snakes from the Everglades ecosystem. Solar-powered, remote-controlled robots designed to look like rabbits are being strategically deployed at locations in South Florida to lure invasive pythons out of hiding so they can be removed from the Everglades landscape.

 Invasive pythons threaten the precious native ecosystem by preying upon the wildlife that lives there, including wading birds, mammals, and other reptiles.

Scientists from the South Florida Water Management District (District) and the University of Florida have teamed up to use robotic rabbit decoys as part of our continuing efforts to combat and remove invasive pythons.

These innovative robots produce a heat signature and emit a smell designed to attract pythons. The robots are equipped with cameras that monitor for pythons and notify District officials when a snake is detected. Once notified, the District can dispatch a python removal agent to the area.

Every python that is removed and eliminated is making a difference to protect the Everglades and South Florida’s diverse and native wildlife.

Invasive pythons are one of the most destructive and harmful species in America’s Everglades. Their aggressive predation on native wildlife robs panthers, raptors, bobcats, and other native predators of their primary food sources.

The State of Florida has taken unprecedented action to protect the Everglades and eliminate invasive pythons from across the landscape.

The annual Florida Python Challenge™, which came to a close on July 20, is one of the many ways we are working together to protect native wildlife across South Florida. The 10-day competition raises awareness about nonnative species and provides participants a firsthand opportunity to join in the effort to remove invasive Burmese pythons from the Everglades ecosystem.

SFWND continues to expedite Everglades restoration efforts and we will continue working to protect South Florida’s natural resources and combat invasive species like Burmese pythons.

Visit SFWMD.gov/PythonProgram to learn more about our efforts to remove these invasive snakes from the Everglades landscape.