Florida’s 2024 Python Challenge is underway and will run August 9-18.

The aim of the competition is to motivate hunters to rid the Florida Everglades of Burmese pythons, an invasive species in the state.

As part of the challenge, a grand prize of $10,000 will be offered to the person who removes the most pythons, with additional prizes in other categories.

But while removing pythons can help the environment, Eat them a good idea?

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According to a recent warning from the Florida Department of Health, eating python meat is not illegal—but you should still avoid it.

The FWC website states that the FDOH has found that python meat can contain high levels of mercury.

Ingestion of high amounts of mercury can damage the gastrointestinal tract, nervous system and kidneys.

Even if wild pythons aren’t on the menu, that doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy a nice piece of snake. Outlets like the Beef Jerky Experience in Kissimmee offer python jerky online, so you have other options for getting your python needs met.

In fact, canned rattlesnakes were once considered a delicacy in the Sunshine State. Learn more about it here.

Check out the Florida’s Foodies Podcast. You can find all episodes in the media player below: