Python nearly strangles forest ranger posing for photo

An Indian forest ranger had a narrow escape after a 5.5-metre rock python tightened its grip around his neck.

An Indian forest ranger was nearly strangled after taking a photo with a python. Source: YouTube

A forest ranger in India was nearly strangled by a massive python as he posed with it.

Ranger Sanjay Dutta was filmed taking a photo with the 5.5-metre rock python after he was called by local villagers in Sahebbari, eastern India, to capture the snake.

Following the rescue, the ranger wrapped the python around his neck and shoulders for a triumphant photo opportunity in front of the gathering crowd.

But the python quickly wound itself around Mr Dutta's neck, forcing him - and others - to grab hold of the python so he could wriggle free from its tightening grip.

Mr Dutta was not harmed in the incident.

It comes as a woman was swallowed by a seven-metre python in Indonesia while she was checking her vegetable garden.