Florida uses high-tech robot rabbits to control Burmese python invasion

A Burmese python being showcased during a safe handling demonstration on June 16, 2022, in Miami. (Image: AP)

In the Florida Everglades, fluffy bunnies are not what they seem. These rabbits hop, move and even smell real, but they are machines designed to lure giant Burmese pythons from their hiding places.

The South Florida Water Management District has turned to robot rabbits as its newest weapon against one of the state’s worst invasive predators. Officials say the snakes have already wiped out 95% of small mammals and many birds inside Everglades National Park.

Why use robotic rabbits?
Detecting the camouflaged snakes has long been the hardest challenge. “Removing them is fairly simple. It’s detection that’s difficult,” said Mike Kirkland, lead invasive animal biologist at the district.

To help, 120 robot rabbits were released this summer. Built from toy rabbits, they were fitted with heaters, scents and subtle motions. Each costs around $4,000 and is powered by solar panels. The devices sit in small pens watched by video cameras. When a snake approaches, a signal alerts a contractor to remove it.

How did pythons become a Florida problem?
Burmese pythons are not native to Florida’s wetlands. Their population surged in the 1990s after the exotic pet trade and a reptile facility collapse during Hurricane Andrew. Many escaped or were released by owners who could not handle them.

Adult snakes often reach 10 to 16 feet in length. In 2023, a record 19-foot python was captured. Females can lay up to 100 eggs, making the population hard to control. They have no natural predators and consume birds, deer, raccoons and even alligators.

The U.S. Geological Survey estimates “tens of thousands” of snakes may live in Florida. Some reports suggest numbers could reach 300,000. Since 2000, more than 23,000 have been removed from the wild.

What else is being done?
Officials say every removal helps protect native wildlife. “Every invasive python that is removed makes a difference,” said water district board member Ron Bergeron.

The state also runs the annual “Florida Python Challenge,” offering prizes for catching the most snakes. This year, nearly 1,000 participants removed 294 pythons. Florida resident Taylor Stanberry claimed the $10,000 top prize with 60 captures.

Separately, the Python Elimination Program employs 50 hunters who remove snakes year-round. Veteran hunter Donna Kalil has captured more than 1,000.

It is too early to know if robot rabbits will succeed, but researchers remain hopeful. “This part of the project is in its infancy,” Kirkland said. “We are confident this will work given enough time.”