Crocodile caught feasting on snake in 'very unusual' photo taken off Australian island

A nature-loving Australian living in the Top End was going about his morning routine last week, enjoying his coffee while taking in ocean views and some birdsong, when he spotted a “very unusual situation” in water.

Native Craig Winston said he traveled to the cliffs of Melville Island, off Australia’s northern coast, after waking up on Wednesday “to see what the tides were doing and take some photos of birds. It was then he spotted the unusual scene, noticing a crocodile swimming away from shore with “something in its mouth”.

“I started taking (photos), and it was almost as if the crocodile was proudly showing me its prey as it made a few minutes before taking off,” the ecology student who “ always lived in the bush. News Monday.

In its mouth was a large snake.

The crocodile seen swimming with the snake in its mouth. — “It was almost as if the crocodile was proudly showing off its prey.” Source: Supplied

After returning home, Craig said he reviewed the footage and initially believed the object in the crocodile’s mouth was a carpet python. He then noticed its “black head, scales and patterns” and asked online experts to confirm that it was indeed a black-headed python (Aspidites melanocephalus).

“A very unusual situation/scenario but the consensus is that the snake so far is Aspidites melanocephalus,” he posted. “Just be thorough and post here to see what you think.” Others were quick to agree with Craig’s “good observation.”

The photographer said he lives near where the forest “kisses the sea” and that the area has “small eroding cliffs with many felled trees.” And of course, plenty of opportunities to observe the weirder side of nature.

Craig pictured in a selfie in the Northern Territory area. — Craig said he believed the location played a significant role in this unique sighting. Source: Supplied

“My guess is the black-headed python was hunting close to the shore near the cliffs or it fell off the cliffs while chasing its prey, climbing down one of the downed trees,” he said.

“I’ve never seen a crocodile eat a black-headed python before, but I’m not surprised because crocodiles are opportunists and will eat anything they can catch, kill or scavenge.”

Craig said he believed the location played a significant role in this unique sighting.

“A perfect habitat for a black-headed python and a crocodile,” he added.

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