EVERGLADES, Fla. – Experts across the Sunshine State are monitoring an increasing presence of the deadly Burmese Python in the Everglades. The Burmese python is an invasive species that was first sighted in the Florida Everglades in the 1970s, likely due to the pet trade and accidental or intentional releases by pet owners. Florida is home to more invasive animal species than any other U.S. state, except California, according to the Florida Museum of Natural History. Non-native Burmese pythons have established a breeding population in South Florida. They are among the most concerning invasive species because they compete with native wildlife for food, including mammals, birds, and other reptiles.