Alligator versus Python the True Story
On one side we have the American alligator, a fearsome, native predator and king of the Florida food chain, until recently.
On the other side we have the rapidly growing and breeding population of exotic, and deadly Burmese pythons. This dangerous snake is now threatening the alligator in it's natural habitat.
Over the past couple of years there have been several well documented and witnessed epic battles between the two reptilian rivals, with more to come.
(Photo courtesy of Flickr)
Round Four of this Predator Heavyweight Bout
Python wins a pyric victory
The fight rages on in the Florida Everglades. So far, the first three rounds have gone to the alligator, with documented film footage of the struggle between these two reptiles and with the snake being eaten at the end of the fray. Not so, with the most recent struggle, in which a 13 foot python swallowed a 6 foot alligator. The end result was the death of both predators, when the snake split open after swallowing the alligator whole.There are currently two conflicting theories of what occured during this most recent episode, since no one actually witnessed the encounter. One theory is that the alligator somehow managed to claw or bite its way through the side of the snake after being swallowed. This seems unlikely as the alligator was most certainly dead prior to being swallowed. The python is a constrictor which suffocates it's prey prior to eating it.
Theory number two is that the snake, after swallowing it's large meal, was lethargic and easy prey for a second gator to come along and take a bite out of the snake, thus releasing it's fellow reptile from being digested. The snake was found with the gator's hindquarters protruding from its midsection (see attached photo).
What's troubling about these encounters is that the Burmese pythons invoved, were relatively small, only in the range of 10 to 13 feet. The Burmese python has been known to grow up to 30 feet in length, in it's native Southeast Asia and is a documented man eater at this size, as well. In addition, it is now verified that there is a sizeable breeding population of these formidable snakes in the everglades. It is literally, only a matter of time before larger pythons are encountered. They are destined to become the top of the food chain in the everglades, to the detriment of the native species, including, American alligators, American crocodiles, panthers and skunk apes.
Not only do these gigantic snakes pose a threat to Florida's natural wildlife, but to humans as well. There is evidence of these snakes moving into suburban Miami, as well as north into other areas of Florida. They are basically able to thrive in any area which supports alligators, climatewise. It is now estimated that there is a population of over 30,000 Burmese pythons in the everglades alone.
Research has shown that other exotic species, such as boa constrictors and yellow anacondas are also showing-up in the everglades, thanks to the exotic pet trade and individuals releasing their pet snakes into the South Florida wilds.
(Photo courtesy of Flickr)
Killer Alligators and Crocs
By George Brown "Geosota" (Florida + Ohio) - See all my reviews
If human death is not your cup of tea, forget "Killer Gators and Crocs". The carnage here is resplendant. As many as five or six people die per page. After a couple chapters of redeeming scientific value (boring) the killing begins with "Chapter Three - Contact with People, Not a Good Idea".
This book may actually save some lives. While reading, I often said "Note to self: Don't do this!"
Yes, around the world these merciless killers feast on our species' dumber individuals. Darwin lives. Lots of good advice here - e.g., if you are in the tropics, don't dangle a foot over a swamp.
Gator vs Pyton Photos
Snake Posters
Great Gifts for Reptile Fans
Gifts for all occasions
Alligator Tote Bag
Tote Bag
Navy Blue T-Shirt
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got python? Black T-Shirt
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Gator Danger Dark T-Shirt
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Gator vs Python in Florida
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Who's Your Daddy?
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the Wild World of Alligators and Pythons
- Chanel Alligator & Python Flap Bag | BagWhiz.com – The Bag Blog ...
- The House of Chanel has just recently release this Chanel Alligator & Python Flap Bag. Crafted from the mixing of exotic alligator and python skins in the Chanel's classic signature flap design. The two elements turn this bag into the ...
- Big Cat News: Smothering of a Florida child by a Python
- Florida and its counties spent millions of dollars to eradicate the Brazilian pepper tree after it spread through the state - even though this invasive species doesn't eat birds, wildlife ranging from rabbits to alligators, or cats and ...
- Python Strangles 2-year-old Girl in Florida - HispanicBusiness.com
- In 2005, a 13-foot Burmese python tried to swallow a 6-foot alligator whole in Everglades National Park. The snake exploded with the alligator's hindquarters protruding from its midsection. It alerted wildlife officials and enthusiasts ...
Burmese Pythons as Pets
By D. Jacobson - See all my reviews
This book contains some great info on caring for these large serpents and it also contains a section on serious considerations before purchasing a giant snake which is great to see.
(geez who'd a thought!)
Discovery News Network: Animals
Fetching RSS feed... please stand byGator and Python Links
- New threat to our way of life: giant pythons
- Article:New threat to our way of life: giant pythons:/c/a/2008/02/20/MNABV5PP3.DTL
- The Gist
- Articles from the Smithsonian Institution's award-winning, monthly general interest magazine, plus exclusive Web articles, videos, blogs, photographs and more.
Reptillian T-Shirts and more
Need a gift for the amateur herpatoligist?
Alligator vs Python on Twitter
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- Rangergirl141
- I rememberthis RT @JunglePete: For those that were asking about the Burmese Python vs American Alligator battle of 2005 http://bit.ly/17bNQx
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- JunglePete
- For those that were asking about the Burmese Python vs American Alligator battle of 2005 http://bit.ly/17bNQx
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Who Will Win Round 5 in the Everglades Battle?
Introduce yourself
AbbasAbedi wrote...
Excellent Lens. 5*
If you get a chance check out my Instant Stress Management lens.
Oosquid wrote...
I hope that I never come face to face with either of those two creatures! Interesting lens. 5 stars.
ElizabethJeanAllen wrote...
Parts of South Carolina are similar to the Everglades. There are a lot of creepy crawly things in there. I put my money on the gator. I've seen them in action.
Great lens
Lizzy
Evelyn_Saenz wrote...
The Purple Gallinules just flew over to check out your lens. For such a great lens we're sending you a virtual cup of coffee on the house. We can hardly wait to read the rest of your lenses.









