A Florida-based python hunter has shared a video of the heartbreaking moment a Burmese python lunged at him and his camera crew.
Invasive Burmese pythons are increasingly spotted in the tall grasses of South Florida, but a recent encounter shows that these snakes are just as comfortable hiding in trees.
On Wednesday, hunting guide Mike Kimmel, known as the “Python Cowboy,” shared a video on Facebook that captured a tense interaction with one of the snakes.
The video, shot earlier this year, shows a python becoming aggressive and lashing out to bite after its hiding place was discovered by Kimmel’s hunting dog, Otto.
“We walked past this thing three or four times,” Kimmel said in the footage. ‘Without this (hunting) dog I would have walked right past it.’
A python hunter faces a heartbreaking moment when a Burmese python charges at him
Hunting guide Mike Kimmel, known as the “Python Cowboy,” shared a Facebook video on Oct. 9 of a tense encounter with a Burmese python that lunged aggressively after being discovered by his dog Otto
As the hunters, including a contestant on the TV show Swamp People: Serpent Invasion, attempted to capture the snake, it lunged several times and even tried to climb higher to evade capture.
Kimmel finally grabbed the snake by the head and revealed it was a younger python, about four feet long.
“The little guys are the hardest (to catch) because the spot to catch them is so small and they’re fast,” Kimmel added in the clip.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has called for the removal of Burmese pythons from the wild due to their devastating impact on the Everglades ecosystem.
These non-venomous snakes, which can grow up to 18 feet tall in Florida, prey on native wildlife including deer, bobcats and alligators.
Experts believe the species spread in the region after escaping from captivity or being released by pet owners.
Officials recommend that Burmese pythons be humanely euthanized when captured from the wild to control their growing population.
The exact location of this specific hunt has not been disclosed.
While damage from Hurricane Milton is still being assessed, experts are warning of a possible increase in wildlife activity and advising residents to remain cautious and avoid interfering with animals.
While damage from Hurricane Milton is still being assessed, experts are warning of a possible increase in wildlife activity
Animals such as alligators, bears, snakes and manatees may have been displaced or irritated by the storm
Animals such as alligators, bears, snakes and manatees may have been displaced or irritated by the storm.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission recommends staying alert and giving wildlife plenty of space. It is important to avoid trying to rescue or help animals during or after a storm as this can put you in danger.
Severe weather conditions, such as high winds and flooding, can displace and disorient wildlife, allowing them to access unusual areas.
The stress and confusion caused by storms and hurricanes often cause wildlife to behave differently and possibly exhibit more aggressive tendencies than normal.
Although only six of Florida’s 44 snake species are venomous, the increased risk of encounters due to flooding makes it essential to maintain a safe distance. Snakes sometimes seek shelter in rubble or houses and can be found in unusual places.
Christopher Gillette, who works at Bellowing Acres Sanctuary, a sanctuary for alligators and exotic animals, has warned that displaced snakes can often blend in with rubble or be found washed up in unusual places. He tells people to “keep a close eye on it.”
“Be aware that the storm will move a lot of snakes…there will also be venomous snakes moving. Watch your step, especially in that floodwater,” Gillette said
During storms, snakes can often be carried away by floodwaters or cause them to seek shelter in rubble, houses, sheds or barns
“Be aware that the storm will move a lot of snakes… there will also be venomous snakes moving. Watch your step, especially in that floodwater. “If you are cleaning up after the storm and picking up branches, be sure to pay attention to where you put your hands – watch out for snakes,” he added.
Snakes are not aggressive towards humans unless they feel threatened, and usually prefer to avoid encounters. To best avoid snakes, the FWC suggests avoiding tall grass and keeping hands and feet out of areas you can’t see.
While displaced wildlife does not all pose a threat to human safety, it is important not to attempt to rescue or assist injured, orphaned, or dead animals during or after storms if they endanger you.