Roc:
That is quite a photograph! Thanks for posting it.
The introduction of invasive species into the wild can have profound effects on the environment. Look at what happened along the Gulf Coast after nutria were intentionally or accidentally introduced there in the 1930s. Today, there are millions of the critters in the bayous, canals, and swamps -- and the fur trade is about the only thing keeping them under some form of control.
Also look at what happened in the South after the Civilian Conservation Corps promoted the planting of kudzu as a means of erosion control also back in the 1930s. Kudzu now covers more than seven million acres of ground in the southern states -- and the stuff is spreading. (We certainly have our share of it here in Tennessee.)
As for the large constrictors, just consider that a female reticulated python can grow to a length of 30 feet, can weigh as much as 300 pounds, and can lay as many 100 eggs at a time. They don't eat often, but when they do they can crush and swallow an animal weighing 120+ pounds. (I wonder how many people have lost one of their prized AKC Black and Tan Coonhounds in the Everglades lately.)
