Florida Woman Captures 60 Invasive Snakes, Wins $10,000 in 2025 Python Challenge Record

A Florida woman has made history by capturing a jaw-dropping 60 Burmese pythons and walking away with the grand prize of $10,000 in the 2025 Florida Python Challenge. The high-stakes competition, which concluded Wednesday, saw Taylor Stanberry of Naples, Florida emerge as the top python catcher in a record-breaking year for the event.

Held by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), the challenge attracted 934 participants from 30 U.S. states and Canada, who collectively removed 294 invasive Burmese pythons from Florida’s ecosystems—marking the highest number since the event began.

Why Was the 2025 Python Challenge So Important for Florida’s Environment?

The 2025 Florida Python Challenge played a pivotal role in protecting the delicate biodiversity of the Everglades. These invasive Burmese pythons, which can grow up to 20 feet long and weigh as much as 200 pounds, have devastated native wildlife in Florida by preying on birds, mammals, and reptiles. Their unchecked population growth threatens to unravel the state’s fragile ecosystem.

For the first time, Everglades National Park was officially included as one of the eight hunting zones. This expansion was seen as crucial by conservationists, as pythons have increasingly penetrated deeper into the Everglades, making containment and removal more urgent than ever.

FWC officials highlighted that the competition serves two vital purposes: physically removing a destructive species and educating the public about the environmental threat posed by these predators.

Who Is Taylor Stanberry, the Record-Setting Snake Hunter?

Taylor Stanberry, a resident of Naples, Florida, is no stranger to reptiles. Alongside her husband Rhett, she manages a popular Facebook page focused on snakes and hunting techniques. Their passion for python removal extends to other social platforms, including YouTube and Instagram, where they share insights into the challenging and often dangerous work of invasive species control.

Stanberry’s 60-python haul not only earned her the $10,000 Ultimate Grand Prize but also recognition among conservationists and Florida wildlife authorities as a symbol of grassroots environmental activism.

How the Python Challenge Raises Awareness and Builds Community Involvement

The Python Challenge isn’t just about prizes. According to Ron Bergeron, a governing board member of the South Florida Water Management District, the competition has grown into a public outreach event that encourages Floridians to engage in year-round conservation efforts.

“The Python Challenge is not just catching pythons,” said Bergeron. “It’s educating the public so that when you’re in the Everglades, all of the groups that recreate in the Everglades learn how to remove a python safely.”

The challenge brings together wildlife experts, recreational hunters, and environmentalists in a shared mission to restore the natural food chain. It provides hands-on education, community involvement, and real-world impact in tackling Florida’s invasive species crisis.

Expert Analysis: The Broader Ecological Impact of Burmese Pythons

Experts at the University of Florida and FWC agree that Burmese pythons represent one of the most severe threats to Florida’s native wildlife. Originating from Asia and introduced through the exotic pet trade, these snakes have bred rapidly in the wild after escaping or being released.

Their impact is significant. Studies have shown population declines of more than 90% in raccoons, opossums, and bobcats in areas heavily populated by pythons. The removal of nearly 300 snakes during this year’s challenge reflects a growing public and institutional commitment to reversing these devastating trends.

What’s Next for Florida’s Fight Against Invasive Species?

With the continued success of the Python Challenge, the FWC and other partners plan to increase training, support community-led removal efforts, and integrate Everglades protection into Florida’s long-term environmental policy.

By turning invasive species removal into a public initiative, the state hopes to not only curb the python population but also instill a deeper environmental awareness among residents and visitors alike.

Florida’s 2025 Python Challenge was more than a competition—it was a rallying cry for conservation, led by everyday citizens like Taylor Stanberry making extraordinary impacts. The fight to preserve Florida’s natural heritage continues, one snake at a time.

For your information:

What is the Florida Python Challenge?
The Florida Python Challenge is an annual conservation competition hosted by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Participants are encouraged to remove invasive Burmese pythons from designated zones to protect native species.

How much did the 2025 Python Challenge winner earn?
Taylor Stanberry, the top performer in 2025, won $10,000 for removing 60 Burmese pythons—more than any other competitor in the challenge’s history.

Why are Burmese pythons a problem in Florida?
Burmese pythons are an invasive species with no natural predators in Florida. They disrupt local ecosystems by preying on native animals, causing significant declines in wildlife populations.

How big can Burmese pythons get?
These snakes can reach lengths of up to 20 feet and weigh as much as 200 pounds, making them one of the largest snake species in the world.

Is the Python Challenge open to the public?
Yes, the event is open to the public with registration. Participants must complete safety training and follow all FWC regulations.