VOICED : Burmese pythons swarm South Florida

Jeffrey Fobbs, a seasoned fireman, is part of Miami Dade's Phantom 1 unit, handling snake emergencies. He teaches snake handling, with students like Cheryl, a biologist learning to manage the growing Burmese python population in South Florida. These pythons, often released by owners, grow rapidly and impact local ecosystems. Roberto Torres, a birdwatcher, notes their effect on species in the Everglades. With no natural predators, these pythons pose a significant threat to local wildlife.

What is the key to successfully handling a snake emergency according to Jeffrey Fobbs?

• Act quickly and aggressively

• Avoid eye contact with the snake

• Remain calm and approach carefully

• Use loud noises to scare the snake

Why do some snake owners release Burmese pythons into the wild?

• They are not interesting pets

• They are illegal to own

• They become too large to handle

• They are too expensive to keep

What is the largest recorded size of a Burmese python in South Florida?

• 10 feet 5 inches

• 15 feet 2 inches

• 18 feet 8 inches

• 20 feet 1 inch

What is a significant ecological concern regarding Burmese pythons in Florida?

• They help control the rodent population

• They have no natural predators and disrupt local wildlife

• They are a natural predator of alligators

• They are a food source for local birds

How many eggs can a female Burmese python lay at a time?

• Up to 100 eggs

• Up to 75 eggs

• Up to 50 eggs

• Up to 150 eggs