Optimizing survey conditions for Burmese python detection and removal using community science data.

ABSTRACT: Burmese pythons (Python bivittatus) have demonstrated prolific spread and low detectability within their invasive range in Florida, USA. Consequently, programs exist which incentivize contractors to remove pythons. While surveying, contractors collect data on search effort and python captures. We examined data from South Florida Water Management District's Python Elimination Program to determine the effect of operational and environmental covariates on two measures of survey outcome: success (i.e., probability of removing at least one python) and efficiency (i.e., the number of pythons removed per survey hour). Additionally, we assessed the spatial distribution of contractor search effort and removals. Warm temperatures (> 25 °C) improve survey outcomes, especially when surveys occur late

SUBMITTER: McCaffrey KR 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11742711 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature