Invasive Burmese pythons have slithered to a new location in South Florida, establishing a colony outside the previously established core range, according to wildlife officials. Historically, Burmese python populations in South Florida were centered in Everglades National Park in Miami-Dade County,

Native animals can still sometimes gain the upper hand against invasive species.

See scientists wrangling the invasive snakes.

Burmese pythons are recognizable by more than their size. Hunters should be on the lookout for a telltale, arrow-shaped marking on the snake’s head, along with giraffe-like spots across its body and dark spots around its eyes. During the summer months, they’re most likely to be found sunning on levee banks or near trees.

Florida has spent decades trying to reduce python numbers through organized removal programs, public hunts, and contractor teams trained to capture the snakes.

Researchers captured 177 invasive Burmese pythons and removed more than 4,100 eggs during a single breeding season in Southwest Florida.

In Florida, python removal is often presented as a test of nerve and skill. One professional python hunter, however, says the priority should be the protection of native animals,