Filipino man bites python to death in self-defense

Close-up of a python. Illustration photo by Pexels

The 48-year-old Aleria was riding his motorcycle in the early hours of Dec. 20 when he encountered the python as it emerged from the grass onto the road, reported The Straits Times.

He initially stopped his motorcycle to let the snake cross, however, the situation quickly escalated when the python started attacking him, biting his hand and arm, and coiling around his waist.

"I thought I was going to die if I didn’t fight back," the man spoke to local media.

In an attempt for survival, Aleria bit back at the snake’s neck. He bit it "until its skin peeled off," and then on its flesh, making the serpent loosen its loop, he said. The struggle lasted about 10 minutes, during which Aleria managed to tear away chunks of the snake’s flesh until it succumbed.

He then sought medical attention at a nearby house and was eventually taken to the hospital, where he was treated for his injuries and received antibiotics, reported the Daily Mail. Pictures from the hospital showed the extent of his injuries, with a bandaged bloody arm and blood on his face. He has since been discharged to recover at home.

The remains of the python were grilled and consumed by local villagers, said Aleria.