West Palm Beach, Aug 28 (AP) — In a unique approach to combat the invasive Burmese pythons in the Everglades, robotic marsh rabbits are being deployed to entice the elusive predators out of hiding. These mechanized bunnies, resembling real rabbits in appearance, movement, and scent, are part of a strategic initiative by the South Florida Water Management District to protect native wildlife from these voracious snakes.
Reports indicate that the Burmese pythons have severely impacted the ecosystem in Everglades National Park, causing a dramatic reduction in small mammals and birds. “While removal is straightforward, detection poses significant challenges due to the snakes' remarkable camouflage,” explained Mike Kirkland, lead invasive animal biologist for the water district.
This summer, 120 robot rabbits were deployed as an innovative experiment by the water district and University of Florida researchers. Prior attempts using live rabbits proved impractical due to high costs and time constraints, Kirkland noted.
The robotic rabbits are essentially modified toys, equipped to emit heat, produce rabbit-like odors, and mimic natural movements, making them nearly indistinguishable from live rabbits. “They genuinely look like real rabbits,” Kirkland said. These solar-powered devices can be activated and deactivated remotely and are monitored through video cameras that alert teams when a python approaches.
“Once alerted, we can dispatch our contractors to remove the python,” Kirkland mentioned, adding that each robot costs about $4,000, funded by the water district.
Though not native to Florida, Burmese pythons have established themselves in the Everglades, often escaping or being released from homes after outgrowing their status as pets. Females can lay between 50 and 100 eggs, with a gestation period of 60-90 days, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Estimating the python population is challenging; the US Geological Survey suggests there are tens of thousands, while some estimates go as high as 300,000. Their natural predators are few, although instances of alligator clashes and other predators preying on their eggs are noted.
Since 2000, over 23,000 pythons have been extracted from the region. The robotic rabbits represent the latest effort to confront snakes that can grow between 10 and 16 feet (3 to 5 meters) in length.
“Every python removed is a victory for Florida’s environment and native wildlife,” said Ron Bergeron, a member of the water district's governing board. Pythons can be culled humanely throughout the year on private and state-managed lands.
The annual “Florida Python Challenge” awards prizes for capturing the most and largest snakes. This July, 934 participants from 30 states took part, capturing 294 pythons, with a $10,000 prize awarded to the top participant who caught 60 reptiles.
While it's too soon to gauge the full success of the robotic rabbit project, early indications give room for optimism. “We're in the early stages, but confident this strategy will prove effective once further refined,” Kirkland concluded.
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