Florida wildlife officials to issue python hunting permits

By next week, the first of a select squad of python hunters will be ready to roll. Gov. Charlie Crist on Wednesday approved plans to begin capturing and killing Burmese pythons that have invaded the Everglades. The governor called the program, similar to one used for ''nuisance'' alligators on state lands, important for protecting wildlife and the public. Scientists believe the snakes, likely offspring of pets released by owners or freed from cages or shops by Hurricane Andrew, primarily pose a threat to native species. Trappers, whom the FWC said would be confined to volunteer experts, will euthanize the snakes. They also will provide scientific data from weight to gut contents. Trappers would be able to sell the meat and skin, which has commercial value for shoes and other items...MiamiHerald