An alligator devoured a massive Burmese python in Florida's Everglades National Park, an unusual event documented by a tour guide. Kelly Álvarez shared a video on the "Alligators of Florida" Facebook page, showing the reptile swimming with the snake's carcass clutched in its jaws among lily pads.
"This is one of the coolest and most impressive sights I've had the pleasure of witnessing since working in the Everglades National Park. Our large alligator in Shark Valley, measuring about 12 feet (3.66 meters) long, dragging an invasive Burmese python that's at least twice its size," Álvarez commented.
The incident took place on November 28, coinciding with Thanksgiving Day. Álvarez explained that alligators often kill large prey and hold onto them as they decompose, making it easier to tear them apart before consuming.
On Tuesday, a visitor biking through Shark Valley spotted a smaller crocodile with what remained of the enormous python, its "belly visibly full." "We assume that once the large alligator ate its fill, this one took it and moved it to a safe distance to feast as well," expressed Alison Joslyn in the same Facebook group.
Alison, who posted photos of the animals, noted there's still a substantial portion of the snake left for the next alligator daring enough to grab it.
According to the National Wildlife Federation's website, if American alligators catch large prey, they drag it underwater to drown and consume it. Additionally, they possess a throat adaptation called a glottis, enabling them to capture prey while fully submerged.
The record for the longest Burmese python found in the Everglades is 19 feet (5.8 meters) in length, with the snake weighing 125 pounds.
Alligators and Burmese Pythons in the Everglades
Why do alligators hold onto their prey as it decomposes?
Alligators often hold onto large prey while it decomposes to make it easier to tear apart before consuming.
What adaptation allows alligators to capture prey underwater?
Alligators have a throat adaptation known as a glottis, which enables them to capture prey while fully submerged.
How long was the longest Burmese python recorded in the Everglades?
The longest Burmese python found in the Everglades measured 19 feet (5.8 meters) in length.