Some snakes have evolved to prey upon other snakes, a behavior known as ophiophagy. When a snake consumes a member of its own species, this specific form is called cannibalism. Far from a random act, this behavior is a calculated survival strategy observed in various snake species around the world, both in the wild and in captivity.
Why Snakes Engage in Cannibalism
A primary driver for snake cannibalism is simple opportunism. Snakes are predators that often act on impulse, and if a smaller snake presents itself, it is treated as a potential meal. A fellow snake can be a substantial, high-energy food source that is convenient to overpower, especially for generalist feeders.
Eating a rival snake is also an effective way to eliminate a competitor for resources like food, shelter, and mates. This behavior is often linked to territorial disputes, especially between males. Intense conflicts over prime habitats or mating rights can escalate to the point where one snake kills and consumes the other.
Notable Cannibalistic Snake Species
Among the most well-known snake-eaters are the kingsnakes, native to North America. This group of powerful constrictors is known for preying on other snakes, including venomous species like rattlesnakes and copperheads. They use their strength to coil around their prey, cutting off its breath in a process called constriction.
The king cobra’s scientific name, Ophiophagus hannah, literally translates to “snake-eater.” Found across South and Southeast Asia, this species has a diet that consists almost entirely of other snakes. As the world’s longest venomous snake, it uses its size and potent venom to overwhelm prey, which can include other cobras, kraits, and even pythons.
This snake-eating behavior is not limited to just a few species. The Eastern indigo snake of the southeastern United States is another powerful, non-venomous predator known to consume other snakes. Similarly, the black-headed python of Australia often preys on other reptiles, including snakes.
Adaptations for Snake-Eating
A notable adaptation for snake-eating is venom resistance. Species like the kingsnake have evolved a natural immunity to the venom of pit vipers they consume, such as rattlesnakes. This allows them to hunt these dangerous snakes with a reduced risk of injury or death.
Physical attributes are also tailored for this diet. Powerful constricting abilities are necessary to subdue muscular prey. Snakes also possess highly flexible jaws connected by elastic ligaments, allowing them to consume prey much wider than their own heads.
Specialized hunting techniques are also employed. A king cobra may strike and inject venom, then wait for it to take effect before swallowing its prey. Research also suggests the banded stripes on some snake-eating species could help reduce cannibalism by their own kind.