Florida ready to call out 'python posse'

TALLAHASSEE, Fla., July 15 (UPI) -- Florida wildlife officials say they could have as many as 20 seasoned trappers ready to roll if they get the green light for a python roundup.

The idea of a "python posse" was raised by Sen. Bill Nelson, D-Fla., after an escaped pet python killed a child.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said it isn't planning a vigilante sweep of the swamps, but a well-managed operation by trained and licensed trappers.

An estimated 150,000 pythons slither around Florida, and the idea of a campaign to clear them out has picked up steam.

The Christian Science Monitor reported Wednesday the idea is opposed by some animal-rights groups and some wildlife experts doubt the python problem is as serious as thought.