Python Tries to Eat Alligator, Explodes

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around an incident involving a 6-foot alligator and a 13-foot python in the Everglades, where the python attempted to consume the alligator and subsequently exploded. Participants explore the implications of nonnative species in the ecosystem, reactions to the incident, and the responsibilities of exotic pet ownership.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express disgust at the incident, indicating a strong emotional reaction to the graphic nature of the event.
  • Others celebrate the outcome as a reduction in the python population, suggesting a positive view on the alligator's survival.
  • Concerns are raised about the presence of pythons in the Everglades, with some participants questioning the legality and ethics of releasing nonnative pets into the wild.
  • There is a discussion about the responsibilities of exotic pet owners, with participants questioning whether sellers adequately inform buyers about the potential consequences of owning such animals.
  • Some participants suggest punitive measures for irresponsible pet owners, reflecting frustration with the situation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of agreement and disagreement regarding the implications of the incident, the responsibilities of pet owners, and the management of nonnative species. No consensus is reached on these issues.

Contextual Notes

Participants' views on the responsibilities of exotic pet ownership and the ecological impact of nonnative species remain unresolved, with varying opinions on the effectiveness of current laws and educational efforts.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in wildlife management, ecological impacts of invasive species, and the ethics of exotic pet ownership may find this discussion relevant.

Ivan Seeking
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MIAMI, Fla. — Alligators have clashed with nonnative pythons before in Everglades National Park. But when a 6-foot gator tangled with a 13-foot python recently, the result wasn't pretty.

The snake apparently tried to swallow the gator whole — and then exploded. Scientists stumbled upon the gory remains last week [continued]
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,171358,00.html
 
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Ewwww, I could have done without that before going to bed. :frown:
 
Evo said:
Ewwww, I could have done without that before going to bed. :frown:

You're such as girl. :rolleyes:

:biggrin:
 
AWESOME! One less snake in this world!
 
Hence, everything in moderation; o:)
 
There are pythons in the Everglades?! Oh, I see. People who don't want the snakes as pets anymore just drop them off wherever. Aren't there laws against that?
 
honestrosewater said:
There are pythons in the Everglades?! Oh, I see. People who don't want the snakes as pets anymore just drop them off wherever. Aren't there laws against that?
I think we ought to feed the owners to the snakes. :devil:
 
Evo said:
I think we ought to feed the owners to the snakes. :devil:
Heh. Yeah, I was thinking the same thing. :devil:
The article says that some people let the snakes go because they become afraid of them (Yes, I would be afraid of a 13-foot python too - that's why I DON'T OWN ANY! :rolleyes:). So - yeah - here's the thinking: I bought this snake and now I'm afraid that it will hurt me. So I will just dump it off somewhere where it can hurt other people. Oy.
I wonder if the people who sell exotic animals take any pains to educate their customers. "This is just a baby. If you feed it, it will grow. Introducing non-native plants and animals into an ecosystem can have serious, negative consequences..." Are there any responsible exotic/dangerous-pet owners here? What did you have to do to get the pet? Did the seller tell you anything?