Robotic Rabbits Targeted Florida Burmese Pythons

The state deployed high-tech decoys to monitor and remove the invasive species from the Everglades.

Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Reptiles

Bold vector editorial illustration of a robotic rabbit decoy hidden among sharp marsh sawgrass, representing wildlife management technology in Florida. — Florida wildlife officials have deployed AI-powered robotic rabbit decoys in the Everglades to monitor and help remove the invasive Burmese python population. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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In 2025, the South Florida Water Management District and the University of Florida launched a program using AI-powered robotic rabbit decoys to combat the invasive Burmese python population. These solar-powered devices utilize heat and scent to attract snakes, alerting officials for professional removal.

Why it matters

Burmese pythons threaten the delicate ecosystem of the Everglades, causing a 99% decline in native mammal populations such as raccoons and opossums. This technology provides a new way to survey difficult-to-reach areas where the estimated 100,000 to 300,000 snakes reside.

Robotic decoys use AI cameras and heat signatures to detect snakes in remote regions. Since 2017, official state programs have successfully removed 19,000 invasive pythons from the Everglades.

The players

South Florida Water Management District

This regional agency is responsible for managing water resources and land conservation efforts across the state.

University of Florida

This public research university provides scientific oversight and technical expertise for invasive species management.

Tom Rahill

He is a specialized python removal contractor who secured the 2026 Florida Python Challenge grand prize by removing 96 snakes.

The details

The robotic rabbits mimic prey to draw out predators, at which point an internal camera system transmits data to dispatch trained agents to the site. This effort complements other large-scale control programs, such as the annual Florida Python Challenge, which has resulted in the removal of over 1,600 snakes total.

1970s: Burmese pythons were first introduced into the Everglades.
2012: A US Geological Survey study reported massive declines in native mammal populations.
2017: Contractors began large-scale python removal efforts.
2025: The robotic rabbit decoy program was deployed.
2026: The annual Florida Python Challenge was conducted.

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Culture Shift

The introduction of robotic decoys highlights a shift toward high-tech conservation methods in response to severe ecological damage. This approach contrasts with historical manual removal efforts as authorities attempt to manage a population estimated at up to 300,000 snakes.

Residents living near the Everglades benefit from reduced snake sightings as the state scales up removal programs. For those interested in participating, annual events like the Florida Python Challenge offer a way to get directly involved in conservation efforts.

The takeaway

Innovative technology is becoming an essential tool for protecting local ecosystems from invasive predators. Homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts in affected areas can help by reporting sightings to state wildlife officials.