Added: Aug 11, 2023
In this episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, Joe Rogan interviews Mike Kimmel, also known as the "Python Cowboy," about the invasive python species in Florida and the challenges of managing their population. Kimmel is a python hunter who is actively involved in capturing and removing pythons from the Everglades.The discussion begins with Rogan asking Kimmel about the severity of the python problem in Florida. Kimmel explains that while the situation is bad and native wildlife is being affected, it is not as extreme as some TV shows make it out to be. He estimates that there are likely fewer than the estimated 500,000 pythons in the Everglades, but the exact number is unknown. The estimates are based on captures and the decline of native wildlife. Kimmel also discusses the decline of the Florida Panther population and the challenges of sustaining their numbers. He mentions that there are more Panthers than accounted for, as evidenced by the high number of vehicular deaths. He shares his personal experiences of encountering Panthers while hunting pythons and describes a harrowing incident where he was woken up by a Panther growling outside his tent. The conversation then shifts to the topic of toad venom addiction and abuse. Kimmel explains that the Bufo toad, also known as the cane toad, produces a toxic secretion that some people try to get high from. He describes the dangerous effects of the toxin and the various methods people use to consume it. Rogan and Kimmel then delve into the origins of the python problem in Florida. Kimmel suggests that the pythons were intentionally released by reptile breeders in an attempt to stop importing pythons from overseas and start farming them in the Everglades. He believes that there is evidence to support this theory, although he does not mention specific names or details. The discussion also touches on the challenges of hunting pythons in the Everglades. Kimmel explains that the general public faces many restrictions and limitations when it comes to hunting pythons, making it difficult for them to participate in population control efforts. He mentions that even state contractors are not allowed to go off-road in the National Park, where pythons are protected. Kimmel highlights that the pythons have decimated populations of small mammals, birds, and reptiles in the Everglades. As apex predators with no natural predators in the area, they have disrupted the natural balance of the ecosystem. Kimmel goes on to describe the methods used to hunt and capture the pythons. He and his team employ visual searching, tracking, and specially trained dogs to locate and capture the snakes. Removing the pythons from the wild is crucial to prevent further damage to the ecosystem. The conversation then delves into the challenges and dangers of python hunting. Kimmel explains the difficulty of finding the snakes, as they are skilled at hiding and blending into their surroundings. He also mentions the risks involved in handling large pythons, including the potential for injury or death. The issue of public perception and controversy surrounding python hunting is also addressed. Kimmel acknowledges that some people view the hunting of pythons as cruel or unnecessary, but he argues that it is necessary to protect the native wildlife and restore the balance in the Everglades. He also highlights the potential economic benefits of python hunting, such as the sale of python skins and the creation of jobs for hunters. Kimmel expresses his concern about the future of the Everglades and the need for increased efforts to control the python population. He calls for more funding and support for python removal programs, as well as the involvement of the general public in reporting python sightings and supporting conservation efforts. Towards the end of the podcast, Kimmel discusses the broader issue of invasive species and the need for proactive measures to prevent their introduction and spread. He emphasizes the importance of responsible pet ownership and urges pet owners to never release their pets into the wild. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the water management issues in the Everglades and the impact on the ecosystem. Kimmel explains that the water flow has been altered by levees and locks, leading to water quality problems and the proliferation of blue-green algae. He mentions the need for better management and regulation to address these issues.
