Amazing Python Photos You Won’t Believe Were Taken in Naples

## Holy Moly, Is That a Python?! A Naples Resident’s Guide to Identifying (and Avoiding) These Slithery Invaders So, you’re enjoying a beautiful Naples day, strolling along the Gordon River Greenway, maybe basking in the sun at Lowdermilk Park, and BAM! You spot something long, scaly, and definitely *not* an iguana. Your heart skips a beat. Could it be… a Burmese python? These colossal constrictors, originally from Southeast Asia, have made quite the name for themselves here in Southwest Florida, particularly in and around the Everglades, which spills over into our beautiful Naples backyard. While sightings within the city limits are less common than deeper in the swamp, they’re not unheard of, and knowing what to look for can be the difference between a close call and a truly hair-raising experience. This isn’t just about morbid curiosity, folks. It’s about protecting our local ecosystem and, frankly, ourselves. These pythons are apex predators, decimating native wildlife populations and posing a potential (albeit small) risk to humans, especially small children and pets. So, let’s dive into the world of python identification, learn how to distinguish them from our native snakes, and discuss what to do if you encounter one of these impressive yet invasive reptiles. **Python 101: A Crash Course in Identification** Burmese pythons are large, non-venomous snakes, capable of reaching astonishing lengths – we’re talking over 20 feet! Their girth can be equally impressive, thick as a telephone pole in some cases. But size alone isn’t always the best indicator, especially with juveniles. Here’s a breakdown of key characteristics to look for: * **Color and Pattern:** The most distinctive feature is their blotchy pattern. Think dark brown or black blotches outlined in beige or tan, resembling giraffe-like markings against a tan or light brown background. This camouflage helps them blend seamlessly into the Everglades’ sawgrass and underbrush, making them surprisingly difficult to spot. However, their coloration can vary, sometimes appearing more olive or grayish. * **Head Shape:** Pythons have a distinctly triangular head, wider than their neck. This shape is common among many snake species, but in combination with the other characteristics, it helps narrow down the possibilities. * **Eyes and Pupils:** Look for vertically elliptical pupils, like a cat’s eye, which are characteristic of nocturnal hunters. Their eyes are typically a golden yellow or amber color. * **Scales:** Smooth and glossy scales further distinguish them from native snakes, many of which have a more textured or keeled appearance. **Don’t Get It Twisted: Distinguishing Pythons from Native Snakes** Florida is home to a diverse range of snake species, many of which are harmless and play essential roles in our ecosystem. Misidentifying a native snake as a python can lead to unnecessary panic and potentially harm the innocent reptile. Here’s how to avoid some common mix-ups: * **Eastern Indigo Snake:** Our largest native snake, the indigo, can be mistaken for a young python due to its size and dark coloration. However, indigos lack the distinct blotchy pattern and have a more uniform, glossy black or bluish-black appearance. They also possess a rounded head, unlike the python’s triangular shape. * **Florida Pine Snake:** This large, non-venomous constrictor shares a similar habitat with pythons and can also reach impressive lengths. However, pine snakes have a more distinct pattern of black or dark brown saddles on a lighter background, along with a more pointed snout. * **Water Snakes:** Several species of water snakes inhabit our waterways and can be mistaken for pythons, especially when seen swimming. However, water snakes tend to be smaller, have more distinct banding patterns, and lack the python’s characteristic blotches. **Encountering a Python: What to Do (and NOT Do)** If you believe you’ve encountered a Burmese python in Naples, here’s the recommended course of action: 1. **Keep Your Distance:** Do NOT attempt to handle or capture the snake. These are powerful animals capable of inflicting serious injuries. 2. **Observe and Document:** If possible, take photos or videos of the snake from a safe distance. This documentation will be helpful for identification and reporting. Note the location, date, and time of the sighting. 3. **Report the Sighting:** Contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Exotic Species Hotline at 1-888-IVE-GOT1 (1-888-483-4681) or report the sighting online through their website. The FWC has dedicated programs for python removal and relies on public reports to track and manage these invasive species. 4. **Spread the Word (Responsibly):** Inform your neighbors and local community groups about the sighting, emphasizing the importance of caution and proper reporting procedures. Avoid sensationalizing the encounter or spreading misinformation. **Protecting Paradise: What We Can Do in Naples** The Burmese python problem isn’t going away anytime soon, but we can all play a part in minimizing their impact on our beloved Naples ecosystem: * **Educate Yourself and Others:** Learn more about invasive species and their impact on our environment. Share your knowledge with friends, family, and neighbors. * **Support Conservation Efforts:** Consider donating to or volunteering with organizations dedicated to python removal and Everglades restoration. * **Be Responsible Pet Owners:** Never release exotic pets into the wild. This is how the python problem started in the first place! If you can no longer care for an exotic pet, contact the FWC for proper surrender options. * **Stay Vigilant:** When exploring our natural areas, be aware of your surroundings and report any suspected python sightings. By working together, we can help protect the unique biodiversity of Naples and ensure that our natural paradise remains vibrant for generations to come. So, keep your eyes peeled, stay informed, and remember, a little knowledge can go a long way in the fight against these slithery invaders.