Well the Dr. Emailed me back.
Your are correct. I told the interviewer that pythons were here as a result of the pet trade. I did not use the term illegal and I have asked that the correction be made in the story. I did say releasing pythons was illegal. I did not blame python keepers as there is no evidence that they released any pythons. I do note that pythons were found in ENP prior to 1992.
You are correct being accurate is important. I try to be and to correct mistakes.
As for being old and fuzzy, if you had added ugly and ill-tempered I'd say you must know me.
By the way. I think keeping reptiles as pets is a worthwhile hobby both socially and economically and I do not think a national ban will solve local or regional problems. I'd love to see the industry recognize that there is a problem and deal with it themselves eliminating any need for legislation.
As for whether or not the pythons will survive, I have heard both sides. I'll let the pythons tell me the answer. This severe prolonged cold along with a day long rain (yesterday) will be the test.
If I have a hope, it is that you are correct, the cold got them. (Not that I wish that fate on any animal).
Frank
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