Wildlife experts in the Everglades National Park in Florida are using robotic rabbits to lure and trap Burmese pythons to control the invasive snakes.
The pythons, which can grow up to 20ft (around 6m) long, "are established in the park due to accidental or intentional release of captive pet animals," according to the National Park Service.
With no natural predators, they have multiplied rapidly, preying on native animals, including raccoons, deer, bobcats, opossums, marsh rabbits and birds. Several studies also show severe population declines of many small mammals in areas where pythons thrive, threatening the balance of this unique wetland habitat.
Despite efforts to control the snakes, estimates suggest there may be between 100,000 and 300,000 Burmese pythons in the South Florida region.
Now, in a new attempt to increasing trapping rates, biologists from the South Florida Water Management District have come up with an intriguing new approach – and it involves robotic marsh rabbits.
During the summer of 2025, 120 of these fluffy robots were deployed across the Everglades. Each one is solar powered and can be switched on and off remotely.
Fitted with scent and heat emitters to mimic real prey, these decoys – which cost about $4,000 each – are designed to lure pythons into camera-monitored areas, making it easier for wildlife teams to locate and capture them.
Early trials suggest the approach could be effective, offering a new tool in the ongoing battle to remove the snakes from the park.
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Experts say combining conservation methods is crucial. In addition to robotic rabbits, trained dogs and professional python hunters are being deployed, and researchers are exploring genetic techniques to reduce breeding. Public education campaigns also urge pet owners not to release exotic animals into the wild.
While eradicating the snakes entirely may not be possible, officials hope innovations such as the robotic rabbit programme can slow their spread and give native wildlife a chance to recover.
Top image: Everglades habitat. Credit: Getty
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