Tally in Florida python hunt holds at 50 snakes

MIAMI — More than 1,500 hunters are struggling to find more Burmese pythons as a public hunt for the invasive species continues in the Everglades.
 
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission said Friday that the tally of pythons killed in the Python Challenge is holding at 50. That number hasn't changed since Tuesday.
 
The hunt began Jan. 12 and ends Sunday. State officials hope to raise awareness about the threats invasive species pose to native wildlife. University of Florida researchers are examining the snake carcasses.
 
Two python hunters from Tennessee had to be airlifted Thursday from the Everglades. The Broward Sheriff's Office says they became "stranded and disoriented" and had to be rescued by helicopter.
 
Authorities say the men "complained of lightheadedness and weakness and were suffering from heat exhaustion and dehydration."

WFTV