If they reach the ecosystem's carrying capacity in the Everglades, the pythons will spread, and that likely means into backyards.

Across South Florida, giant snakes that once seemed like exotic escapees are now entrenched residents, reshaping ecosystems and creeping into neighborhoods. The Burmese python, a massive constrictor ...

The invasive snakes are excellent swimmers and can hold their breath for up to 30 minutes. Pythons may increasingly be found in residential backyards and urban areas adjacent to these waterways.

Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. Ten days before Christmas, a distraught South Florida homeowner called Michael Ronquillo about a snake in her neighbor’s yard.