KEY LARGO, Fla. – The Florida Wildlife Conservation Commission has confirmed the first sighting of Burmese python hatchlings in Key Largo.
FWC officials said the sighting suggests that the invasive species might be reproducing on or near the island.
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Officials said they already knew that pythons have been breeding in the Everglades and there have been previously documented sightings of adult pythons in the area, but python hatchlings have never before been reported in the Florida Keys.
Wildlife officials have not spotted nests or eggs in the Keys, but officials said a "collaborative effort is underway" to find out more about the snake's presence in the Keys.
The FWC is working with the U.S. Geological Survey, along with other partners and residents, to increase detection and monitoring efforts for Burmese pythons in the area.
Anyone in South Florida who thinks they might have spotted a Burmese python is asked to call the Exotic Species Reporting Hotline at 888-483-4681. Reports can also be made online at IveGot1.org.