Florida woman wins annual python challenge with record snake haul

A Florida woman has been crowned the winner of the state’s annual python challenge after raking in dozens of the invasive species in this year’s competition. 

Taylor Stanberry placed first after wrangling 60 of the snakes during the 10-day competition in the Everglades, raking in a whopping $10,000 prize, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. 

Taylor Stanberry placed first in Florida’s 2025 Python Challenge after capturing 60 snakes in the Everglades. (Taylor Stanberry)

The competition invites novice and professional snake catchers to Florida’s Everglades in an attempt to cut down on the invasive species harming the state’s wildlife. Participants are required to trap and humanely kill each snake. 

“Under the leadership of Governor Ron DeSantis, Florida has taken unprecedented steps to remove invasive pythons, protect our natural resources and conserve native wildlife,” South Florida Water Management District Governing Board Member “Alligator Ron” Bergeron said, adding, “Long live the Everglades!”