Primary Invasion Area: South Florida
Burmese pythons are most famously invasive in South Florida, particularly within the Everglades ecosystem. The population established after escaped or released pets bred in the wild. They now prey on native mammals, birds, and reptiles, causing severe ecological disruption.
Other U.S. Regions of Concern
Sightings and small populations have been documented in other warm, humid parts of the United States. These include areas of southern Texas, the Florida Keys, and parts of the Gulf Coast. While South Florida hosts the largest breeding population, isolated individuals occasionally appear elsewhere, raising concerns about potential new established populations.
Global Spread Through the Pet Trade
The global spread of this invasive species is largely driven by the international pet trade. Their popularity as large, exotic pets leads to releases when owners can no longer care for them. For a detailed overview of their global distribution and impacts, visit the U.S. Geological Survey species profile.
