Samantha NeelyUSA TODAY NETWORK - Florida
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When it comes to being a Floridian, you have to coexist with multiple types of critters − all at once. From the tiny anoles zipping across the sidewalks as we so rudely step in their path to the alligators we prefer to not step anywhere near.
But out of all of Florida's creatures, there's one infamous fellow that gets a bad rep.
You can't be a local and have not heard of the Burmese python, slithering into the southern region of the state and wreaking havoc with the local ecosystem.
However, it's not totally their fault. They were introduced to the Sunshine State in the 1970s and 1980s when they were imported to be sold as exotic pets. However, some owners were unable to handle the giant snakes and find them new homes and ended up releasing them illegally into the wild.
Despite their rocky reputation, Burmese pythons have managed to earn themselves somewhat of a fan club. Facebook groups and subreddits have dedicated themselves to sharing their love and educating the masses on the large reptiles.
Breaking records: These five Burmese pythons found in Florida are in the record books for longest captured
But whether you fall into the category of big time snake supporter or generally scorn at the sight of a serpent , no one can resist some good swag. And we've got you covered.
Here some of best, most bizarre and even the coolest gifts made from or inspired by Burmese pythons.
Get rid of your boring outfits, add some python leather attire
Besides Halloween night, you might have never had the idea to dress "80s glam rock god" but what's stopping you?
There's plenty of unique items of clothing made from Burmese python leather, you just got to find what speaks to you. Put away the dull blue jeans and opt for some python skin pants when heading out to Publix or the club. Or throw on a cowboy hat with a python skin accent to really tie together an outfit.
Link to buy "Genuine python snakeskin pants," "Burmese python hat," or "Python bikini."
Spice up your outfit with some snaky jewelry
If whipping out some snake-skin garb while running errands is too much, totally understandable. Instead, you can liven up for your fit with jewelry made from the bones of Burmese pythons. This will be the perfect conversation starter, whether you rock them on a first date or at the next parent-teacher conference.
Link to buy "Silver Hoops with Burmese Python Vertebrae" earrings here. Link to buy "Python Rib Bone Earrings" here.
Or just literally buy some Burmese python skin. Why not?
When combing through the "Burmese python" tag on any e-commerce site, you'll find dozens of listing for straight up python skin. Burmese pythons aretan in color with dark blotches, however some sellers have added extra colors or designs to the leather.
Additionally, there are numerous listings of snake sheds for sale. According to one listing, they can be used for arts and crafts, as well as Wiccan ceremonies.
"Historically, serpents and snakes represent fertility or a creative life force. As snakes shed their skin through sloughing, they are symbols of rebirth, transformation, immortality, and healing," Etsy store Born Magical says.
Link to buy Burmese python skin here, here and here. Link to buy python shedding here and here.
Impress friends and romantic prospects when you bring out your python skin wallet
Nothing screams power more than breaking out your Burmese python skin wallet at dinner. Suddenly, everyone is asking about it — Where did you get? Did you hunt the python yourself? Why are you so cool?
Okay, we're definitely exaggerating here but you might turn some heads with your python billfold.
Link to buy wallet here.
Toughen up your home office or living room with a python furniture
Have any empty space in your room you've been dying to fill? Or maybe you want a statement piece to complete your latest renovation? Possibly some python leather furniture is the way to go.
Miami-based designer Elle Barbeito's work primarily comes from Burmese pythons, explaining online that it takes on the unforgiving aspects of "the natural environment with industrious sensitivity." On her website, she offers various pieces of furniture for those needing that final piece to bring their room together.
Link to buy "Burmese Python Rocking Chair" by Elle Barbeito here. Link to buy "Burmese Python Lawn Chair" by Elle Barbeito here.
Display a Burmese python skull to brighten up a room
If you want house guests to think you're artsy and mysterious next time they come over, it's time to invest in a skull to display in your home. For bonus points, you just grab the entire skeleton while you're at it. It adds to the aesthetic.
Link to buy Burmese python skull here. And entire skeleton here.
Or have show off a wet specimen of the snake
If bones are overrated and not hardcore enough for you, consider a wet specimens instead, which are biological tissue samples preserved in a liquid solution.
Link to buy Burmese python wet specimen here and here.
A little peckish? Try a python!
Can you actually eat a Burmese python? Well the FWC warns against it since neither the Florida Department of Health nor the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services have stated that python meat is safe to consume because mercury levels have been found to be high.
However … it doesn't hurt to try, right? To be fair, House of Jerky's "python jerky" doesn't say it actually came from Florida's invasive creatures, but think about how cool you'll sound at your next family dinner when you can brag about eating a python.
Link to buy "Python Jerky" from House of Jerky here.
Grow your art collection with original work from a python
For only $58, you can fund an artist's dream to create. The longest and most reptilian artist ever.
Louise, a Burmese python at the Kansas City Zoo, can literally paint you an original work of art. Proceeds from the sale will go to animal conservation projects supported by American Association of Zoo Keepers, Kansas City Zoo Chapter.
See link to buy "Animal Art by Burmese Python, Louise" here
Don't want anything that directly comes from python? No worries
Okay, okay! We hear you. For those avid snake lovers, the thought of owning random bones or eating snake jerky might be too much to bear (though the snake art might have grabbed your attention, at least?).
You can opt for some gear that will display your affection for the reptiles. There's hundred, if not thousands, of merchandise dedicated to being proud python parents that you can cop, such as:
Contributing reporting: Mark Bickel, Fort Myers News Press
