Snake hunters descend on the Everglades for the Florida Python Challenge

More than 600 python hunters registered for the event that aims to reduce the population of the invasive species

Friday marked the start of the annual Florida Python Challenge, during which hunters head into the Everglades to track down invasive Burmese pythons in hopes of grabbing a share of $30,000 in prizes.

The annual 10-day hunt, which started more than a decade ago, promotes public awareness of issues with invasive species in Florida while engaging the public in Everglades conversation, said Sarah Funck, the wildlife impact management section leader with Florida's fish and wildlife conservation commission.