2024 python challenge winner caught 20 pythons

Writer: Matias Abril
Published: Updated:
Burmese python
Python with a gaping mouth captured by Python Cowboy. CREDIT: PYTHON COWBOY

The 2024 Florida Python Challenge has concluded, and we have a winner.

On Tuesday, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission announced the final results and winner of the 10-day competition.

This year, 857 participants from 33 states and Canada helped support Everglades conservation by removing 195 invasive Burmese pythons from South Florida as part of the competition.

The grand prize winner is Ronald Kiger, who removed 20 Burmese pythons and won $10,000.

Ronald Kiger, winner of the 2024 Florida Python Challenge. CREDIT: FWC

According to FWC, the challenge aims to increase awareness about invasive species and the threats they pose to Florida’s ecology.

“The success of the 2024 Florida Python Challenge was a collective achievement,” said Rodney Barreto, FWC Chairman, “made possible by the contributions of more than 800 participants, the dedicated efforts of our staff, the invaluable support from our partners and the dedicated leadership of Governor Ron DeSantis. Over 14,000 pythons have been successfully removed by FWC and South Florida Water Management District contractors since 2017. This collective effort continues to have a direct positive impact on the Everglades and our native wildlife through removal and awareness.”

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