In the wake of the death of two children, aged 5 and 7, in Canada, it is a reminder of other children in the United States who have been killed by constrictors. Even more shocking are the large numbers of wild animals that are being destroyed in the FL Everglades due to invasive snakes, Burmese Pythons and other large constrictors. These animals are breeding unchecked with no natural predators. Some species have been up to 99% decimated in the FL Everglades. Raccoons, rabbits, deer, birds, squirrels, and other wildlife are being obliterated. Scientific projections estimate the invasion could spread through the entirety of the southern half of the United States.

If other large exotic animals such as big cats have restrictions and bans, then WHY do we allow animals that can grow from 12 to 18 feet, are capable of killing humans and pets, and are destroying the welfare of other wildlife to continue to be bred and sold? There is a huge disconnect in the logic here.

If you don't think this is a problem, educate yourself:

Florida State Record 87 Eggs in Largest Python from Everglades - http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/08/120813155523.htm

Will Florida Pythons Slither To Rest Of The U.S.? - http://www.npr.org/2012/11/26/165941428/will-florida-pythons-slither-to-rest-of-the-u-s

USGS Maps Show Potential Non-Native Python Habitat Along Three U.S. Coasts - http://www.usgs.gov/newsroom/article.asp?ID=1875

Giant non-native pythons spreading across Florida - http://usatoday30.usatoday.com/tech/science/environment/story/2012-01-04/invasive-giant-pythons-florida/52383352/1

Constrictor Snake Attacks - http://www.humanesociety.org/assets/pdfs/wildlife/captive/constrictor-snake-attacks.pdf