Florida's invasive reptiles threaten Everglades wildlife

Burmese pythons in the Everglades have few natural predators; juvenile snakes are occasionally eaten by native birds and mammals, while large alligators or bobcats may attack adult pythons. Their rapid reproduction and broad diet have led them to become top predators, heavily depleting native wildlife.

The Argentine black‑and‑white tegu, another pet‑trade escapee, now inhabits parts of South Florida. Growing up to five feet and living about 20 years, tegus lay roughly 35 eggs each year and prey on alligator eggs and other native reptile nests, adding further pressure to the already strained ecosystem. State wildlife officials are urging residents to report sightings through a mobile app to help track and manage the growing populations.