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A four-metre python exploded when it tried to swallow a two-metre alligator whole in Florida.

Scientists stumbled upon the gory remains in the Everglades last week.

Scientists have documented four encounters between the giant snakes and alligators in the last three years. The encroachment of Burmese pythons into the Everglades could threaten an $8 billion restoration project and endanger smaller species, said Frank Mazzotti, a University of Florida wildlife professor.

The Asian python population has swelled over the past 20 years after owners dumped pet snakes they no longer wanted in the Everglades.

"Encounters like that are almost never seen in the wild. And here it's happened for the fourth time," Professor Mazzotti said. In the other cases, the alligator won or the battle was an apparent draw.

"They were probably evenly matched in size," Professor Mazzotti said of the latest battle. "If the python got a good grip on the alligator before the alligator got a good grip on him, he could win."

While the gator may have been injured before the battle began, wounds were found on it that apparently were not caused by python bites.

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