Can we eat python? In Florida, the question is being studied

 

In southern Florida (United States), more precisely in the Everglades, Burmese pythons have invaded the area. To end the scourge, local authorities have given permission for residents to hunt these giant snakes and kill them as humanely as possible, CNN reported. Some hunters post pictures of their catch on Instagram and others have even started to eat them. But is it safe? Scientists have looked into the issue and studies are underway.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), an entity responsible for monitoring and preserving wildlife in Florida, has started discussions with the Department of Health to determine if the levels of mercury present in pythons – which are not poisonous but very dangerous for local fauna – does not prevent safe consumption.

The coronavirus has slowed down research

“The study on mercury levels is still in its early stages,” Susan Neel, spokesperson for the FWC, told CNN. “We are currently harvesting tissue and the Covid has slowed down our mission somewhat. ”

The goal of the FWC is “to provide advice on consuming Burmese pythons in South Florida and to better educate the public,” Neel added on CNN.

If scientific analyzes come back favorable, Floridians will have the green light to consume python and this should help regulate the population. But still it is necessary that these snakes are really suitable for consumption.

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Information transmitted by Economist correspondent Oliver Carroll on social media is also reproduced by the Guardian on an agreement that