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

The Burmese python tried to swallow its fearsome rival whole but then exploded

The remains of the two giant reptiles were found by astonished rangers in the Everglades National Park

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

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

"Encounters like that are almost never seen in the wild... And here we are,"

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

Burmese pythons - many of whom have been dumped by their owners - have thrived in the wet and hot climate of Florida's swamps