Python Challenge 2013, aimed at culling South Florida's population of invasive Burmese pythons and raising awareness about the hazards posed by nonnative species, has claimed 11 snakes since its Saturday kickoff.</p><p>Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission spokeswoman Carli Segelson said she got the number from biologists from the University of Florida Research and Education Center in Davie in Broward County, who check in the snakes turned over by hunters. Segelson said she did not have specific information about the sizes or locations of the animals harvested, nor the names of hunters.</p><p>More than 800 people from more than 30 states have registered to compete in the month-long challenge, which will award prize money for the most and largest pythons harvested.</p><p>"We're very excited there have been 11 Burmese pythons turned in so far, since we didn't have any expectations," Segelson said Monday afternoon. "But we are pleased we've had snakes turned in so early in the competition, especially with the weather being warm. This contest has gotten so much attention. We're pleased we have been able to raise so much awareness about non-native species and their detrimental effects on the ecosystem."</p><p>Three of the registered hunters are U.S. Coast Guard members station in Marathon: William Shane Smith, Jamie Hopkins and Kevin Jackman.</p><p>They haven't yet hit the swamps looking for snakes but plan to do so this weekend.</p><p>Hunters are restricted to four state wildlife management areas; Everglades National Park is off-limits. They may use some firearms, as well as captive bolts and machetes to kill pythons. Native species may not be taken.</p><p>In addition to Floridians, the Python Challenge drew residents from 31 other states. There's a $1,500 prize for most pythons caught and a $1,000 prize for the largest.</p><p>To date, the largest Burmese python taken in Florida measured just under 18 feet. Most tend to range from 8 to 12 feet.</p><p>The hunt goes through Feb. 10. To find out more, go to www.PythonChallenge.net.