Rock pythons are S. Florida's latest threat

State biologists are concerned that the aggressive rock python might be the latest invasive species to become established in the Everglades and elsewhere in South Florida.

Wildlife officials planned Friday to do a walking survey just west of Miami to see how many of the big snakes might be living there. Florida is already grappling with Burmese pythons in the Everglades, where they are being blamed for sharp decreases in many native species.

Rock pythons can grow to about 16 feet and are the largest snakes in Africa. Biologists say they are among the world's most aggressive snakes and will eat almost anything they can swallow.

The survey Friday is part of a state effort to eradicate the snakes from South Florida.

Officials say they are increasing their efforts and are expanding search areas and canvassing neighborhoods during the fall and winter season, when the pythons are more likely to be encountered.

Copyright Associated Press