While this does not answer the question about the photo, from another article:
This snake was captured by a permitted python researcher who regularly works in Everglades National Park.
Burmese pythons are an invasive reptile with no natural predators, which appear to be wiping out most of the small mammals that once thrived in Everglades National Park.
The best news about this snake, according to park officials, is that it was removed from the wild which helps protect the diverse wildlife in Everglades National Park.
After the snake was captured, National Park Service and US Geological Survey interns who work on invasive species control projects, including python removal, were allowed to handle the snake to help them gain confidence and experience.
- - - - - -
I would think the interns were handling a live snake to be a useful experience. We had an 11 foot Burmese python in our college apartment. It was fun to go to parties with the snake draped over three of our shoulders as we walked in the door.
I had an 11-12 foot Burmese Python in MY college apartment.
My roommate got it from a stripper.