Snake hunters are heading to South Florida to catch Burmese pythons.
The 2016 Python Challenge starts Saturday in wildlife areas throughout South Florida, including the Everglades. It runs through Valentine's Day.
The Burmese python is not native to Florida. While the snakes are not venomous, they are a threat to the ecosystem and native wildlife.
In 2013 there were 1,600 participants, but only 68 pythons were captured.
This year the Everglades National Park itself is being included in the hunting grounds. However, only authorized agents are allowed to catch snakes in the park.
State wildlife officials hope the hunt increases python sightings and removals from the wetlands.
Scientists say thousands of pythons are to blame for the decline of native wildlife.
There are $25 individual registration fee to take part in the Python Challenge. You have to pass an online training module before you can register. There are also cash prizes being given out for catching the most pythons and catching the longest python.
All the information for the 2016 Python Challenge can be found on the official website.