UF Croc Docs researchers are radio-tagging male Burmese pythons to map movement and locate nesting females, mating groups, and eggs in the Everglades to guide removal efforts.

The implanted transmitters in males help track them to large fertile females during breeding, directing removal teams toward key breeders.

The program’s tracking and cameras reveal nests, including a notable 111-egg nest near the Everglades and Francis S. Taylor Wildlife Management Area.

While not aiming for complete eradication, the effort seeks to reduce damage, protect native species, and support ecosystem recovery in the Everglades and adjacent areas.

Nesting and movement data guide searches in remote, waterlogged areas and support native wildlife restoration by targeting invasive pythons.

Findings inform where to search, especially in hard-to-reach marshes, and support early detection and habitat management to protect native wildlife.

In the reporting period, biologists captured 177 snakes and removed more than 3,500 developing eggs from the ecosystem.

The marking program has helped locate nesting females and nests, including the 111-egg nest, guiding removal efforts.

The program uses surgically implanted transmitters and trail cameras to guide removals and reveal nests in key areas.

The research has identified 30 additional pythons beyond the initial 25 tagged, highlighting the scout-snake program’s value.

Targeting breeding females is crucial since a single mature female can produce many egg follicles, amplifying population control effects.

Researchers study movement, nest locations, and female dispersal, including collecting blood and eggs from nesting females for lab analysis and to ensure nearby eggs or snakes aren’t hidden.