Python bursts after swallowing alligator

A python tried to swallow an alligator whole and then exploded; both predators died in the clash.

A very unusual clash between a 13-foot (3.9 meters) python and a 6-foot (1.8 meters) alligator has left two of the deadliest predators dead in Florida's swamps.

The Burmese python tried to gobble up its fearsome rival whole but then exploded.

The remains of the two prodigious reptiles were discovered by surprised rangers in the Everglades National Park.

The rangers say the find implies that non-native Burmese pythons might even challenge alligators' leading position in the food chain in the swamps.

The python's remains were found with the victim's tail sticking out from its burst midsection. The head of the python was missing.

The stomach of the python still surrounded the head, shoulders, and forelimbs of the alligator.

"They were probably evenly matched in size. If the python got a good grip on the alligator before the alligator got a good grip on him, he could win," Frank Mazzotti, a University of Florida wildlife professor, said.

He said the alligator may have clawed at the python's stomach, leading it to burst.

"Clearly, if they can kill an alligator they can kill other species," Prof Mazzotti said.

He said that there had been four known confrontations between the two species in the past. In the other cases, the alligator won or the battle was an apparent draw.

• snake
• python
• alligator