Python cook-off to raise awareness about ecology

MIAMI (AP) — Python, wild boar and lion fish will be on the menu this weekend in Miami.

Three local chefs will participate Saturday night in a cook-off competition using the invasive species as key ingredients. The goal is to raise awareness about how the animals impact South Florida's ecology — and perhaps even generate an appetite for them.

Haven Gastro-Lounge executive chef Todd Erickson will be cooking braised python. He told the Miami Herald (http://hrld.us/MMY33e) the event will show how these animals can be a "viable food source."

The other chefs cooking to be named the "Best Invasivore Chef" are: Bradley Herron of Michael's Genuine Food & Drink and Timon Balloo of Sugarcane Raw Bar Grill.

Funds will also be raised for Fertile Earth Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting environmental awareness.