Python Challenge captures record-breaking 294 snakes, winner nets $10k for 60 catches

OCHOPEE, Fla. (CBS12) — The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) announced the champion of the 2025 Florida Python Challenge, who captured 60 Burmese pythons, contributing to a record total of nearly 300 removals from South Florida's ecosystems during the competition.

The FWC said that over the 10-day competition, 934 participants from 30 states and Canada came together to remove 294 pythons from South Florida, setting a new record.

“The record number of invasive pythons removed is a significant win for Florida’s native wildlife. Thanks to everyone involved, we are taking important steps to combat the threats these pythons pose to our ecosystems,” FWC Chairman Rodney Barreto stated.

Taylor Stanberry emerged as the Ultimate Grand Prize winner, removing 60 pythons and earning an award of $10,000, per the report.

Other prizes were awarded for various categories, including novice, professional, and military participants.

See also: FWC approves black bear hunting rules, permits available for 2025 season

The Florida Python Challenge encourages public awareness of the dangers invasive species pose to Florida’s ecology and offers individuals a hands-on way to help with Everglades conservation.

This year, the competition expanded to include Everglades National Park as one of its eight official locations.

FWC thanked the three Platinum Level sponsors who donated $10,000 each, contributing significantly to the conservation efforts.

2025 Florida Python Challenge Prize Winners:

• Ultimate Grand Prize: Taylor Stanberry: 60 pythons – $10,000
• Most Pythons Prize: Donna Kalil: 56 pythons - $2,500
• Most Pythons Runner-Up: Hannah Gray: 54 pythons – $1,500
• Longest Python Prize: Michael Marousky, 15 feet, 11 inches - $1,000

Military - Active Duty and Veteran Winners:

• Most Pythons Prize: John Southworth - US Army, five pythons - $2,500
• Most Pythons Runner-Up Prize: Matthew Jamison - US Air Force - $1,500
• Longest Python Prize: Jonathan Miller – US Air Force, 11 feet, 2 inches - $1,000

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