A giant Burmese python found in Florida's Everglades has broken two records.

At 17 feet and 7 inches it is the largest python caught in Florida and it was found carrying a record-breaking 87 eggs.

Scientists at the Florida Museum of Natural History examined the monster 74.6 kilogram snake as part of a federal project to research methods to control Florida's python population.

"It gives us insight to the actual problem which is invasive species, not only in the Everglades environment but also in Florida and around the world," said Kenneth Krysko, the museum's chief herpetogist.

A non-native species is regarded as invasive if it negatively impacts native species or habitat and threatens humans.

Researchers at the museum said the snake was in good health and its stomach contained feathers that would be identified by ornithologists.

The snake will be mounted for exhibition at the museum for about five years after researchers complete their investigation.

Native to Southeast Asia, the Burmese python is one of the deadliest predators in Florida with population estimates varying from the thousands to hundreds of thousands.

State laws prohibit residents from keeping Burmese pythons as pets or transporting snakes across state lines without a permit.