The 2026 Florida Python challenge wrapped up with big crowds, big numbers and a big winner.
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Nearly a thousand people turned out for the challenge, including participants from 30 states, Canada and Vietnam.
In just ten days, hunters removed 280 Burmese pythons from the Everglades, and the ultimate grand prize went to Tom Rayhill, who removed 96 pythons on his own.
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The Python challenge is designed to help reduce the invasive species’ impact on South Florida’s ecosystem.
Rayhill won this year’s $10,000 top award.
A total of $25,000 was distributed in three categories: professional, novice and military.
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