Local Python Hunter Dave Hackathorn Joins ‘Swamp People: Serpent Invasion’

Local python hunter Dave Hackathorn of Waverly will feature in the upcoming season of “Swamp People: Serpent Invasion.” He joins a team of experienced swamp hunters tackling the invasive Burmese python population in Florida’s Everglades, which has severely impacted native wildlife. Hackathorn aims to raise awareness about python hunting’s significance on the show and hopes to become a regular cast member as he advocates for ecological balance.

In January, local python hunter Dave Hackathorn will make his television debut on the History Channel’s “Swamp People: Serpent Invasion.” The Waverly resident will team up with known swamp hunters like Troy Landry and Bruce Mitchell to capture the invasive Burmese pythons threatening Florida’s ecosystem in the Everglades. Hackathorn, popularly known as Hillbilly Dave, is a seasoned hunter of these reptiles and has been protecting wildlife for eight years.

Burmese pythons, originally from Southeast Asia, have wreaked havoc in Florida’s native animal populations since they were released into the wild post-Hurricane Andrew in 1992. Hackathorn highlights how these snakes have decimated local raccoon, possum, and bobcat numbers while now also threatening alligators. As a tree service owner and licensed airboat captain, Hackathorn is well-acquainted with the Everglades’ challenging terrain, making him an ideal candidate for the show.

Each January and February, he and his wife Chris return to Florida during python breeding season. While Chris opts to support but not actively hunt, she eagerly participates by holding the snakes after their capture. Their involvement in the local hunting community ultimately led show producers to invite Hackathorn to join the cast, as he passionately helps fellow hunters on charters.

The season opener airs on January 2nd, with Hackathorn expressing hopes to secure a regular spot on the show. The conditions in the Everglades mirror the pythons’ native habitats, leading to an ever-expanding population that poses a significant threat to local ecosystems. Fortunately, python hunting in Florida is encouraged, with no licensing requirements and year-round hunting allowed in designated zones.

Implementing programs like the Python Action Team since 2017 has yielded impressive results, with annual python kills rising from around 600 to nearly 3,000. The annual Florida Python Challenge also offers participants a chance to win a $10,000 prize while promoting humane killing efforts. Despite these initiatives, completely eradicating the snakes remains an uphill battle, given their established dominance in the ecosystem.

Hackathorn explains the financial incentives tied to python hunting: the price bounties vary based on size, starting at $50 for snakes under four feet and increasing by $25 per additional foot. He skillfully processes the snakes, selling the hides for various leather products. Yet, python hunting is not without danger; bites are common as the snakes defend themselves when threatened, making each hunt a thrilling yet risky venture for Hackathorn and fellow hunters.

Burmese pythons, an invasive species in Florida, have drastically impacted the local wildlife, contributing to the decline of several native mammals. Their presence in the Everglades has necessitated an increase in python hunting efforts, as the state works to curb their population. Seasoned hunters play a critical role in this ecological battle, making their expertise invaluable on platforms like reality television, where they can showcase their skills and raise awareness.

The journey of Dave Hackathorn from a local python hunter to an emerging television personality symbolizes the ongoing battle against invasive species in Florida. As the Everglades remain a breeding ground for these prolific snakes, efforts to manage their population are vital. Hackathorn’s appearance in “Swamp People: Serpent Invasion” not only highlights his passion for the craft but also aims to educate viewers on the ecological impacts of this invasion.

Original Source: www.mariettatimes.com