KUALA LUMPUR — A hungry python’s attempt to devour a Boer goat in Kampung Mengkuang Hujung, Baling, was thwarted by firefighters last night.

The dramatic rescue unfolded at 10:37pm when the fire brigade arrived to find the snake coiled around the goat, preparing to swallow it. Despite the goat’s size, the python was ready for the meal but didn’t get far.

The snake put up a fight, striking at firefighters, but it was subdued in about 15 minutes using a snake snare. Sadly, the goat did not survive.

The 4-meter-long python, too large for one person to handle, was bagged by four firefighters and handed over to wildlife authorities. Officials believe the python ventured from its natural habitat in search of food.