TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Scientists in South Florida have developed a creative new piece of technology that they hope will help catch invasive pythons in the Everglades.
The South Florida Water Management District said it teamed up with scientists at the University of Florida to develop the robotic bunnies.
They're solar-powered and emit heat and scents that lure pythons by mimicking real rabbits, a common food source for pythons and other snakes. With a camera hidden inside, SFWMD can see when the robo bunnies detect snake activity, then staff can pinpoint a location and safely capture the snake.
"Invasive pythons pose a huge threat to native wildlife like wading birds, small mammals, and reptiles," the district said. "That’s why we’re getting creative and staying committed to protecting this delicate ecosystem."
