16-foot python captured in Florida Everglades

EVERGLADES (FOX 13) - The python population is out of control, but Florida wildlife officials say through their program, they are removing as many as they can.

Florida Fish and Wildlife officials said, so far, more than 174 pythons have been caught through their Python Removal Contractor Program. The longest was a female, which was around 16 feet. It was captured in the Florida Everglades.

The Burmese python is not native to Florida, and has been destroying the fragile ecosystem in the state by eating birds, reptiles and sometimes full-grown deer.

Lean more about the contractor program by clicking over to the FWC website.