'Snitch' pythons lead to other snakes in Florida

MIAMI, Florida (WTVD) -- Researchers in Florida are using so-called "snitch" snakes to lead them to Burmese Pythons that have become an invasive species in the Everglades.

Former pets have either escaped or been released by owners when they've grown too large.

Captured pythons are tagged with radio trackers and then followed to other snakes. Researchers have used the plan to nab more than 40 large pythons with a total weight of around a ton.

One snake measured 16 feet and 140 pounds. Researcher believe it's the largest male python ever documented in south Florida.

Some of the captured snakes are being used to help researchers learn about the ecological impact of the snakes which are rapidly reproducing in Florida's warm climate.

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