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Florida’s Python Challenge

The Florida Everglades have enlisted the help of snake hunters around the state to participate in the Florida Python Challenge— an initiative where participants catch and humanely euthanize Burmese pythons. Burmese pythons are a problematic invasive species in the area and this annual competition has helped remove over 1,000 snakes from the habitat. There are categories for professional, novice, and military competitors, and the wrangler who catches the most pythons wins the top prize of $10,000. Veterans across the state have turned to the challenge as an opportunity to bond as they assimilate back into society. Snake wrangling is a unique form of therapy for the vets, who connect with one another over their shared traumas while simultaneously searching for snakes in the Everglades. The competition allows veterans to contribute to society outside of their military duties, which can be pivotal in their mental health journeys. 

Image via CNN


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