Florida’s Python Challenge 2024 is underway, running from Aug. 9 through Aug. 18.
The competition is aimed at incentivizing hunters to rid Florida’s Everglades of Burmese pythons, which are an invasive species in the state.
As part of the challenge, a $10,000 grand prize is offered to whoever removes the most pythons, with additional prizes in other categories.
But while removing pythons may help the environment, is eating them a good idea?
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According to a recent advisory from the Florida Department of Health, it’s not illegal to eat python meat — but you still might want to avoid it.
On its website, the FWC says the FDOH discovered that python meat can contain high levels of mercury.
Consuming high levels of mercury can damage the gastrointestinal tract, nervous system and kidneys.
However, while wild pythons might be off the menu, that doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy a nice slice of snake. Outlets like the Beef Jerky Experience in Kissimmee offer python jerky online, meaning there are other ways to get your python fix.
In fact, canned rattlesnake was once considered a delicacy in the Sunshine State. Read up more on that here.
Check out the Florida Foodie podcast. You can find every episode in the media player below: