Florida Authorities Find 14-Foot ‘Slithering Danger’ Near Busy Road

South Florida Police Apprehend 14-Foot Burmese Python Near Busy Road

South Florida authorities captured a massive 14-foot Burmese python near a busy road in Pinecrest, Florida, highlighting the ongoing issue of invasive species in the region. The incident took place on Wednesday, September 17, when a construction crew reported spotting the enormous snake near their work site, prompting a swift response from the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office and the Pinecrest Police Department.

Upon arriving at the scene in Pinecrest, located approximately 11 miles southwest of Miami, law enforcement officials found the 14-foot python next to the bustling U.S. 98 highway. A Facebook post from the Pinecrest Police Department featured a photo showing Sergeant Carlos Atola and a Sheriff’s Deputy successfully capturing the massive reptile.

The authorities emphasised the threat posed by invasive species like the Burmese python to Florida’s native wildlife. The species, not native to the state, is believed to have spread due to the exotic pet trade and is known to thrive in the Everglades region. To tackle this issue, Florida hosts an annual python hunt, with Taylor Stanberry emerging as the 2025 champion after capturing 60 pythons during the 10-day event.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) states that it is legal to humanely kill pythons in the state throughout the year. The Burmese python, one of the largest snakes globally, typically ranges from 6 to 9 feet in length. However, the FWC reported that the longest python ever caught in Florida measured an impressive 18 feet.

In addition to their size, the Burmese python’s predatory nature raises concerns as they prey on various animals, including birds, small mammals, reptiles, and even pets like cats and dogs. This behaviour poses a significant threat to protected species in Florida, such as the endangered Key Largo woodrat and the threatened wood stork.

The capture of the 14-foot python underscores the ongoing efforts to address the invasive species crisis in Florida. By swiftly responding to reports and safely apprehending these creatures, authorities aim to protect the state’s ecosystem from the harmful impact of these non-native predators.

As Florida continues its battle against invasive species like the Burmese python, residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings to local authorities promptly. Through collaborative efforts and increased awareness, authorities and the community can work together to mitigate the threats posed by these creatures and preserve Florida’s diverse wildlife population.