Initial dispersal behavior and survival of non-native juvenile Burmese pythons (Python bivittatus) in South Florida.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Dispersal behavior is a critical component of invasive species dynamics, impacting both spatial spread and population density. In South Florida, Burmese pythons (Python bivittatus) are an invasive species that disrupt ecosystems and have the potential to expand their range northward. Control of python populations is limited by a lack of information on movement behavior and vital rates, especially within the younger age classes. We radio-tracked 28 Burmese pythons from hatching until natural mortality for approximately 3 years. Pythons were chosen from 4 clutches deposited by adult females in 4 different habitats: forested wetland, urban interface, upland pine, and agricultural interface.

Results

Known-fate survival estimate was 35.7% (95% CI = 18% - 53%) in the fi

SUBMITTER: Pittman SE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10124209 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature