Python hunters capture 18-foot invasive snake in Puerto Rico

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 20 Oct, 18:08 · Archive

Professional hunters captured an 18-foot reticulated python in Puerto Rico after it was spotted attacking a pet cat.

Professional hunter Kevin Pavlidis, who uses the name 'Snakeaholic' on social media, captured a reticulated python measuring over 18 feet in Puerto Rico on Monday. The snake was spotted strangling a pet cat behind a homeowner's house. When Pavlidis and his crew arrived, the python became startled and fled down the mountain.

Pavlidis spent approximately 20 minutes searching the area before locating the reptile. He described seeing 'the white of its jaw' and immediately recognizing it as a large specimen. As his backup crew arrived, the snake became increasingly agitated, with its head raised and tongue-flicking as the team's bright lights reflected in its eyes.

The reticulated python is an invasive species in Puerto Rico. Pavlidis works with Proyectos Retic, a group of python hunters in Puerto Rico who collect data and specimens about the species. Fox News reports that this is 'the longest live captured reticulated python ever caught in Puerto Rico'. Eight people were needed to hold the snake up and display its full length.

Python hunters capture 18-foot invasive snake in Puerto Rico — Image: Daily Mail

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How it is being reported

Monstrous invasive python captured in Puerto Rico after trappers saw it strangling a pet catA professional exotic animal hunter captured a rare breed python in Puerto Rico after the reptile was spotted eating a homeowner's cat behind their house.Daily Mail · 20 Oct, 17:54
Python hunters snag Puerto Rico's largest reticulated python on record after it was spotted strangling pet catKevin Pavlidis helped capture an 18-foot reticulated python in Puerto Rico after the invasive snake was spotted strangling a pet cat behind a house.Fox News · 20 Oct, 00:35

In this story: Kevin Pavlidis · Proyectos Retic · Puerto Rico

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