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Python Ban Proposed


A proposal to ban the sale and ownership of Burmese pythons and other dangerous snakes moves ahead at the state Capitol.

The legislation would ban anyone from owning, importing, selling or trading snakes on Florida's reptiles of concern list. That list includes six species, including Burmese pythons, Anacondas and the Nile monitor lizard.



It's estimated thousands of Burmese pythons are living in the Everglades, many of them former pets released by their owners.

Sen. Eleanor Sobel says the state must be proactive and keep certain snakes out of Florida.



"We can't legislate the many invasive species out of Florida but we can be proactive and prevent future problems. We should not allow reptiles that have the potential to damage our environment, the fragile ecosystem in the Everglades, or threaten public safety."



Eugene Bessette, representing the reptile industry, opposes the bill because he says bans don't work.



He contends politicians are trying to turn this into an emotional issue by hyping the threat to public safety.



"The public is safe in the state of Florida. The public is more at harm from feral cats and feral hawks and that's an issue nobody wants to touch. Ya' know what I'm saying. You're talking about the senseless killing of unnecessary wildlife in the Everglades is done by feral cats. But no, we can't touch grandma's feral cats."



On Tuesday, a Senate committee moved the bill along to the next committee, where supporters say they will add a provision to ban Internet sales of dangerous snakes.


Dave Heller


Here is the link.

http://www.wtsp.com/news/state/story.aspx?storyid=125436&catid=19

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