They discovered the parasite species appeared to be from southeast Asia, indicating they may be connected to Burmese pythons, a species native to that particular region that also happens to be an invasive species in the Sunshine State. "Tens of thousands of invasive Burmese pythons are estimated to be present in the Everglades," the United States Geological Survey (USGS) says. Officials believe the snakes multiplied over the years, turning into an invasive species after careless pet owners released the exotic animals in swamps. But the researchers are concerned about the impact it will have on pygmy rattlesnakes. “The parasites that were found in the pygmy rattlesnakes were larger than the ones found in Burmese pythons,” Farrell explained.

Source: Fox News April 16, 2019 16:18 UTC