About Invasive Burmese Python
Each invasive Burmese Python used contributes to protecting over 70 species of native mammals, birds, and reptiles, and the 1.3 billion dollar economy dependent on the Florida Everglades.
Burmese Pythons, initially exotic pets imported from Asia, were accidentally introduced to the Florida Everglades in the 1980s. Today the Everglades are overrun by these giant creatures, and they’ve eaten at least 95% of the animals in the area. Worse, now they’re expanding their territory and have been spotted down in the Florida Keys and as far north as Georgia. Efforts to control them involve full-time snake hunters, open python hunting seasons, and an annual python hunting competition. Unfortunately, most of these animals are poisonous to eat due to being contaminated with mercury from eating many smaller animals.
Snake hunters have transformed this challenge into an opportunity. They repurpose the python skins into leather for use mainly in the fashion industry. Sourcing materials from invasive species in this way discourages the term "sustainably sourced" for the more fitting "responsibly sourced." This unconventional approach aligns ecological balance with creative craftsmanship.
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